Might Be Your Pathway to Immigration - Exploring Provincial Entrepreneur Programs in Canada
Are you considering immigrating to Canada and have a passion for entrepreneurship? If you have the means and ambition to start or invest in a business in Canada, there's a program designed just for you. Enter the world of Provincial Entrepreneur Programs in Canada – a promising avenue for individuals like who are ready to take the leap into the world of business while pursuing immigration to Canada.
About Provincial Entrepreneur Programs
Provincial Entrepreneur Programs in Canada are initiatives run by individual provinces and territories to attract and retain business talent and investment within their jurisdictions. These programs typically target entrepreneurs who wish to establish or acquire a business in Canada and who have the skills and resources to contribute to the local economy.
Each province and territory in Canada has its own specific entrepreneur program with its own set of eligibility criteria, application process, and requirements. These programs often require applicants to demonstrate their business experience, investment capital, language proficiency, and intention to reside in the province where they are applying.
Below, you can find the overview and types of each provincial entrepreneur program offered across different provinces.
Alberta
Alberta Farm Stream
This stream aims at individuals possessing farm management expertise and adequate financial means to invest in a farming venture within Alberta. It is overseen by the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) in strong partnership with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.
To be eligible for the Farm Stream, the applicant needs to meet the following criteria:
Have the requisite education, training, and work background essential for establishing a viable farming venture in Alberta.
Possess managerial experience within an established farm enterprise.
Present a comprehensive business plan outlining the intended farming enterprise in Alberta.
Provide proof of a Canadian financial institution's willingness to fund the proposed farming venture.
Demonstrate a minimum net worth of $500,000 or provide confirmation of access to these funds.
Commit a minimum of $500,000 in equity towards the farming enterprise.
Alberta Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta Graduate Entrepreneur Stream targets graduates from Alberta post-secondary institutions who aim to set up or run a business in the province. International graduates who already own and manage a business in Alberta can also be eligible for permanent residency through this stream, provided they meet the necessary requirements.
To be eligible for consideration:
You should have earned a degree or diploma from a designated post-secondary institution in Alberta after completing a full-time educational program lasting at least two years. This program must qualify you for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French, meeting a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 in each of the following areas: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
You must either establish a new business or acquire an existing one in Alberta, holding at least a 34% ownership stake. The type of business proposed must not be among those deemed ineligible.
Your Expression of Interest (EOI) submission must coincide with the validity period of your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta's Rural Entrepreneur Stream targets entrepreneurs interested in launching or acquiring a business in a rural Alberta community and seeking immigration to Canada. Rural Alberta communities, as defined by the AAIP, encompass areas with populations below 100,000 outside the Calgary and Edmonton census metropolitan areas. A list of participating communities will soon be released by the AAIP. Accepted individuals arrive in Alberta on a work permit, establish their business based on a Business Performance Agreement, and subsequently receive nomination for permanent residency via the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP).
To be eligible for consideration:
Achieved a level of education equivalent to at least high school, as assessed by an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) meeting Canadian standards.
Possess either a minimum of three years' experience as an active business owner/manager or at least four years' experience as a senior manager within the past decade.
Demonstrate a minimum proficiency in English or French, with a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 4 in each language skill area: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Commit a minimum investment of $200,000 from the candidate's own equity or that of their spouse/common-law partner. Higher investment amounts will receive additional points.
Hold at least a 51% ownership stake in a new business venture. Business partners must be either Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Alternatively, possess 100% ownership for business succession, where the candidate assumes full control following a complete change in ownership.
Obtain a Community Support Letter from a participating rural Alberta community.
New businesses must generate at least one full-time job opportunity for Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Additional points will be awarded for creating more jobs. Job creation is not mandatory for business succession scenarios.
Alberta Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream (FGES) is a program within Alberta's immigration system tailored for foreign-educated graduates from countries other than Canada. It offers opportunities for these individuals to initiate startup enterprises and innovative businesses in Alberta.
To be eligible for the Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream, the applicant needs to meet the following criteria:
Obtained a degree from a foreign post-secondary institution within the past two years, validated by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to ensure equivalence to a Canadian degree.
Accumulated a minimum of six months of full-time work experience, including active business management or ownership, or equivalent experience with a business incubator or accelerator program.
Demonstrated proficiency in English or French with a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of five in each language skill, supported by official test results no older than two years at the time of Expression of Interest (EOI) submission.
Presented a comprehensive business plan including financial projections.
Delivered a 10-minute slide presentation outlining the proposed business venture, focusing on investor appeal.
Maintained at least 34% ownership in urban centers or 51% ownership in regional areas outside of Calgary and Edmonton Census Metropolitan Areas.
Secured a minimum investment from the candidate's own equity, spouse, or common-law partner, or from a recognized Canadian financial institution, venture capital, or angel investment firm before arriving in Alberta. Urban centers require a minimum investment of $100,000, while regional areas necessitate $50,000.
Proven financial capability to establish the business and sustain oneself during the startup phase, meeting settlement fund requirements based on Low Income Cut-Offs (LICOs).
Provided a letter of recommendation from an AAIP-approved designated agency.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream
New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream targets professionals seeking to invest in a business in the province and settle in New Brunswick permanently.
To be eligible for consideration:
Falling within the age range of 22 to 55.
Having a valid connection to New Brunswick.
Holding a minimum of two years' post-secondary education, resulting in a degree or diploma.
Achieving a minimum level 5 on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) exam in English or French proficiency, covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Submitting a detailed business concept.
Investing a minimum of $250,000 in a New Brunswick business, obtaining ownership of at least 33%.
Entering into a Business Performance Agreement with the New Brunswick provincial government and providing a deposit of $100,000.
Ensuring that the business generates significant economic benefits for New Brunswick.
Demonstrating business experience, either through three years of ownership or five years of senior management within the last five years.
Possessing a legally acquired personal net worth of at least $600,000, with $300,000 available in unencumbered liquidity.
Conducting an exploratory visit to New Brunswick or participating in an information session facilitated by the New Brunswick provincial government.
Expressing the intention to settle permanently in New Brunswick.
New Brunswick Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream
New Brunswick Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream is designed for international graduates from accredited universities or community colleges in New Brunswick. Applicants are required to have initiated or acquired a business in New Brunswick and managed it for a minimum of one year while holding a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
To be eligible for this stream, the applicant needs to meet the following criteria:
Falling between the age range of 22 and 40.
Complete at least two years of full-time post-secondary education at a recognized university or community college in New Brunswick.
Possess a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Achieving a minimum level 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) exam in English or French proficiency, covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Solely own and operate a business for a full year.
Reside in New Brunswick throughout the duration of the program (online courses are not eligible).
Demonstrate the intention to permanently settle in New Brunswick.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Entrepreneur Stream
The Nova Scotia Entrepreneur stream targets individuals with experience in business ownership or senior management roles. Candidates are required to reside in Nova Scotia, either by starting a new business or acquiring an existing one, and actively engage in its day-to-day operations.
Under this stream, candidates initially receive a temporary work permit and can subsequently apply for permanent residency after running the business for a year. The application process operates through an Expression of Interest system, where candidates within a pool are invited to apply.
Requirements for candidates under the Entrepreneur Stream:
Age 21 or older.
Attainment of a minimum score of 5 on the Canadian Language Benchmark in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in either English or French.
Intention to permanently reside in Nova Scotia while owning and actively managing a business in the province.
Investment of at least $150,000 to establish or purchase a business in Nova Scotia.
A minimum of 3 years of experience actively managing and owning a business (with a minimum ownership stake of 33%), or alternatively, more than 5 years of experience in a senior business management position.
Possession of a minimum net worth of $600,000.
Ontario
Ontario Entrepreneur Stream
Ontario Entrepreneur Stream is designed for individuals residing outside Canada who aspire to establish a new business or acquire an existing one in Ontario. Successful candidates endorsed through this program will be nominated for Canadian permanent residence, enabling them to apply for citizenship.
To be eligible for consideration candidates must:
Accumulate a minimum of 24 months of full-time business experience within the past 60 months, preferably in a role as an owner or senior manager of a business.
Commit to investing at least $600,000 in an Ontario business, with a requirement of at least 33% equity ownership if the business is in the GTA. Outside the GTA, the investment threshold is $200,000 with a similar equity ownership requirement. This also applies to businesses in Information Communications Technology or Digital Communications province-wide.
Pledge to create two full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents within the proposed company if located in the GTA. Outside the GTA or for businesses in Information Communications Technology or Digital Communications, creating at least one job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents is mandatory.
Possess a minimum net worth of $800,000 if intending to establish a business in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Outside the GTA, the minimum net worth requirement is $400,000, which also applies to businesses in Information Communications Technology or Digital Communications province-wide.
North West Territories
North West Territories Business Stream
Northwest Territories Business Stream targets entrepreneurs possessing business acumen and investment capital, aiming to establish or acquire a business in the region.
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must:
Invest a minimum of $300,000 in equity to start or purchase a business within the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, NWT, or a minimum of $150,000 outside of Yellowknife.
Demonstrate ownership of at least one-third (33.3%) of the business being started or acquired. However, if the personal equity investment exceeds $1 million, ownership may be less than one-third.
Provide a $75,000 good faith deposit, held in trust and released upon satisfactory execution of the Business Performance Agreement.
Maintain a personal net worth of at least $500,000 for businesses within Yellowknife or $250,000 for businesses outside Yellowknife.
Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to initiate and sustain the business, as well as to support themselves and any dependents throughout the Business Performance Agreement duration.
Exhibit a reasonable understanding of the NWT and its economy and possess adequate communication skills suitable for conducting business in the region.
Possess the requisite experience and education to effectively implement the business plan.
Attain a Canadian Language Benchmark level 4 in English or an equivalent level as per the Niveaux de competence linquistique Canadiens (NCLC) in French, validated through recognized tests like IELTS and CELPIP for English, and TEF for French.
British Columbia
The Business category of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) targets affluent individuals seeking to invest in and manage a business in British Columbia with the intention of eventually establishing permanent residency in the province.
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream operates by allocating nomination targets to candidates who demonstrate the highest potential, as assessed through a scoring system. This immigration stream is designed for senior managers or business owners interested in investing in businesses within British Columbia. Priority is given to those who show promise in establishing successful businesses and contributing substantial economic benefits to the province.
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must:
Invest a minimum of $200,000 in an eligible new business or in the purchase and enhancement of an existing business in BC.
Generate at least one new full-time job within the business for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Possess suitable business and/or management experience.
Possess a personal net worth of at least $600,000, acquired through legal means.
Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 in English or French in each of the four competencies (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).
Hold, or be eligible for, legal temporary immigration status in Canada.
Have been lawfully admitted to the country where you currently reside.
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream - Regional Plot
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration – Regional Pilot initiative aims to entice motivated and seasoned entrepreneurs to establish businesses in smaller communities across British Columbia, addressing their specific workforce needs. This program is originally launched in 2019 as a two-year trial program, it has been extended until March 31st, 2024.
Eligibility Criteria for Candidates:
Investment of at least $100,000 in eligible business ventures.
Ownership of at least 51% in the new business.
Minimum net worth of $300,000.
Creation of at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Attainment of Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 in English or French across all four competencies: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Completion of an exploratory visit to the target community.
Eligibility Criteria for Communities:
Population of fewer than 75,000 individuals.
Location beyond 30 km from a municipality with over 75,000 residents.
Demonstration of the capacity to support the entrepreneur through an established network of settlement and business support agencies.
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream - Strategic Projects
British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration – Strategic Projects Stream aids foreign-owned companies in setting up eligible businesses in BC by facilitating the prompt entry of key managerial, professional, or technical personnel from abroad who seek to become permanent residents of Canada and settle in BC.
To be eligible under this stream, candidates must:
Commit to a minimum equity investment of $500,000.
Generate a minimum of three new positions for Canadian citizens or permanent residents per proposed foreign key staff member (up to a maximum of five key staff).
Establish a new enterprise or acquire and expand an existing company in BC.
Yukon
Yukon Business Nominee Program
Yukon Business Nominee Program enables entrepreneurs to own and manage their businesses within Yukon. Initially, candidates arrive in Yukon on a two-year work permit, with the potential for permanent residency nomination upon successful business establishment.
Requirements for the Yukon Business Nominee Program include:
A legally acquired minimum of $300,000 in liquid assets, also verified by a Yukon accounting firm.
A legally acquired net worth of at least $500,000, verified by a Yukon accounting firm.
Investment of at least $300,000 in capital for the business within the first two years. Capital investments encompass property or equipment purchases, excluding expenses like personal residences, vehicles used only partially for business purposes, and operational or maintenance costs.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Stream enables applicants and their families to initiate, acquire, or collaborate on a business within the province. Candidates are required to actively engage in managing the business and reside in Saskatchewan. Upon successful selection, candidates initially arrive in Canada on a temporary work permit. They become eligible to seek nomination after dedicating a minimum of 6 months to establishing their business.
Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Stream
Application Process
Expression of interest submission
Invitation to submit a formal application
Nomination
The expression of interest must fulfill the following minimum entry criteria:
A minimum of three years of entrepreneurial or relevant managerial experience.
A minimum net worth of $500,000 acquired through legal means.
Investment of at least $300,000 in Regina or Saskatoon, or $200,000 in any other area of Saskatchewan.
Candidates enter a pool where they are scored based on various factors. Those with the highest scores are invited to submit a formal application.
Applications must include:
A Business Establishment Plan validating the figures provided in the expression of interest, and demonstrating at least one-third ownership of a company in Saskatchewan, unless the investment exceeds $1 million.
A commitment to actively participate in the day-to-day management of the business.
The creation of two or more jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents if the business is situated in Regina or Saskatoon.
Saskatchewan International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Requirements to Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Must be at least 21 years old.
Attainment of a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7.
Completion of a full-time degree or diploma program of at least two years in duration from a recognized and eligible institution in Saskatchewan.
Residency in Saskatchewan during the academic program.
Possession of a valid Post-Graduate Work Permit with a remaining eligibility period of at least 24 months.
Requirements for Business Establishment
Actively manage and own an eligible business in Saskatchewan for a minimum of one year before applying for nomination.
Possess at least one-third equity ownership in the business.
Demonstrate that the business meets the minimum required revenue threshold after one year of operation, contingent upon the number of employees.
Execute a Business Performance Agreement with the Government of Saskatchewan, provided by the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) upon approval of the application.
Reside in Saskatchewan.
Manitoba
Business Investor Stream of Manitoba targets capable international business investors and entrepreneurs. It offers pathways for both entrepreneurs and farm investors. Initially, candidates receive a temporary work permit and are expected to possess the intention and capability to establish or acquire a business in Manitoba within two years of arrival. The stream eliminates a previous mandate for a $100,000 deposit with the Manitoba government.
Manitoba Business Investor Stream - Entrepreneur Pathway
Under Manitoba Business Investor Stream’s Entrepreneur Pathway, individuals aspiring to launch a business in Manitoba are first granted a temporary work permit. Upon successfully establishing a business that meets the terms of a Business Performance Agreement, they are nominated for permanent residency.
At least three years of full-time work experience in the past five years, either as an active business owner or in a senior management role. Business owners must have at least 33 1/3% ownership to qualify for points.
Minimum of $500,000 verified by a third-party supplier approved by the MPNP.
A required Business Plan integral to the application, along with a business research visit conducted no more than one year before the submission of the Expression of Interest (EOI).
The proposed business must create or maintain at least one job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in Manitoba, excluding owners or close relatives.
Minimum CLB/NCLC 5 required.
Minimum Canadian high school certificate equivalent.
No age restrictions, but ranking points are given to candidates aged 25 to 49.
Minimum investment of $250,000 for businesses in the Manitoba Capital Region, and $150,000 outside the region, in eligible businesses defined by the MPNP.
Points awarded for various factors including language proficiency, presence of close relatives in Manitoba, and family members' enrollment in Manitoba educational institutions or employment in the province.
A mandatory agreement to be signed after application approval, before the issuance of a letter of support for a work permit by the MPNP.
Manitoba Business Investor Stream - Farm Investor Pathway
Manitoba’s Business Investor Stream’s Farm Investor Pathway is directed towards individuals who seek to establish and manage a farm in rural Manitoba. Initially, a temporary work permit is issued. Subsequently, they become eligible for permanent residency upon fulfilling the requirements of a Business Performance Agreement.
Requirements for the Farm Investor Pathway include:
Minimum of three years of verifiable farm ownership and operation experience.
Proficiency in either English or French, demonstrated during interviews if invited.
A minimum investment of $300,000 into eligible tangible assets for establishing a farming business in rural Manitoba.
Mandatory visit to Manitoba for farm business research purposes.
Ongoing and recurring business activities on the farm, with active participation in management required from within Manitoba.
Demonstration of adaptability through practical farming skills, technical knowledge, and experience in technological farming practices.
Minimum net worth of $500,000, verified by a designated third-party service provider if requested by the MPNP within 120 days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.
Prince Edward Islands
The Prince Edward Island Business Impact Category individuals aspiring to launch a business in P.E.I. are first granted a temporary work permit. Upon successfully establishing a business that meets the terms of a Business Performance Agreement, they are nominated for permanent residency. Applicants may invest in a P.E.I. company independently or with an approved Island Agent, who connects them with local businesses. Upon selecting a business, both the applicant and the business must jointly submit a business plan to the P.E.I. Office of Immigration through an Island Agent.
Financial Requirements:
Invest a minimum of $150,000 CAD in a P.E.I. company.
Control at least one-third of the company’s equity or make an equity investment of at least $1,000,000.
Actively manage the business from within P.E.I.
Exclude a redemption option from the investment terms.
Eligibility Criteria for Businesses:
Operate as a for-profit corporation under the Companies Act of Prince Edward Island or the Canada Business Corporations Act.
Generate profits from active income through goods and/or services.
Maintain good standing on all debts and obligations.
Have headquarters in Prince Edward Island.
Maintain a "permanent establishment" in P.E.I. as defined by the Income Tax Act.
Be liable to pay income tax on taxable income earned in P.E.I.
Exhibit potential for sustained profits in the future.
Possess assets valued at least $150,000, actively used for business expansion.
Demonstrate potential to create significant economic benefits for Prince Edward Island across various industries.