Canada Start-up Visa: New “Express Entry” to Improve inflow of Entrepreneurs

On August 14^th, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister, Chris Alexander was in Kitchener-Waterloo where he met with Communitech and other business leaders to discuss the Start-up Visa Program.  The program, which boasted of its first two successful applicants in July 2014, was designed to help make Canada the destination of choice for the world’s brightest innovators.  Start-ups that have received support from a designated angel investor or venture capital fund are eligible for the Start-up Visa program, although there are additional requirements for the Start-up Visa Program that include language, education, and settlement funds requirements.

Communitech and KW Business Leaders Discuss Canada Start-up Visa Program

Discussions between the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and local KW business leaders built upon the momentum of Alexander’s recent visit to GrowLab Ventures in Vancouver last month, where he welcomed the first two successful applicants under Canada’s Start-up Visa Program.  Attendees of the roundtable discussion were encouraged to continue their efforts in identifying exciting start-up opportunities with the help of the Start-up Visa Program.

Canada Start-up Visa Program Supports Economic Growth & Prosperity for All Canadians

Minister Chris Alexander spoke on behalf of the program:

“Our government is focused on long-term prosperity and economic growth for all Canadians. The Start-up Visa Program is helping to attract innovative entrepreneurs to Canada who can help create jobs and meet the needs of Canada’s labour market. We will continue to work with business leaders who can support creative business ideas and help Canada compete on a global scale.” -Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister

Learn More about Canadian Small Business Grants and Loans for Start-ups

To find out what your business needs to do in order to qualify for start-up funding Download a Free Government Funding for Small Businesses Checklist.