On a shoestring
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Budget Metaphor
Imagine a thin shoelace to represent a small budget, highlighting minimal resources for achieving something. 
Their startup was launched on a shoestring, but they succeeded.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Poverty
Doesn't mean extreme poverty, but indicates making do with limited financial resources. 
He's not poor, but lives on a shoestring to save money.
Pro Tip 3/3Resourcefulness
Often implies ingenuity or creativity in managing to do something with very little money. 
They decorated their home on a shoestring, using handmade items.