Looking to take your tech startup global? 🇨🇦 Canada’s Start-up Visa Program offers ambitious entrepreneurs like you a chance to build your business and secure permanent residency — and North Forge is here to make that journey smoother, faster, and full of opportunity.
This isn’t just about relocating — it’s about launching your vision in one of the most supportive and innovation-driven environments in the world. Let’s break it down and help you take the first step.
🇨🇦 What is Canada’s Start-up Visa Program?
The Start-up Visa Program is a Canadian government initiative designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs from around the world. Through this program, eligible founders can receive permanent residency by launching scalable, job-creating businesses supported by Canadian organizations like North Forge.
🌟 Why Choose North Forge?
North Forge is more than just a business incubator — it’s a gateway to your Canadian dream, offering:
- Year-round application intake and fast processing (under 1 month!)
- A central location in Winnipeg, North America’s logistics hub
- Access to one of the largest fabrication labs in North America
- Targeted support for women entrepreneurs
- Premium tools like Pitchbook and PatSnap
- Connection to the NF Angel Network and expert mentors (EIRs)
✅ Are You Eligible? Let’s Check!
To qualify for the program through North Forge, make sure you can confidently answer YES to all of the following:
- 💡 Is your business innovative and tech-focused?
- 👥 Does it have 1–5 founders?
- 🌎 Is it globally scalable?
- 🇨🇦 Will it create jobs for Canadians?
- 💬 Do all founders meet CLB level 5 in English or French?
- 💰 Can you show proof of settlement funds?
- 📊 Do you collectively own at least 51% of the business?
- 👤 Does each founder own at least 10% individually?
- 🛂 Are you prepared with immigration documents and clean records?
If you meet all these criteria, you’re ready to move on to the next step!
📄 Required Documents (Start Preparing Early!)
North Forge requires documents in two phases. Here’s what you’ll need:
Phase One: During Application
- Financial forecast
- 3-minute recorded pitch
- 10–15 page pitch deck
- Business plan (optional but helpful)
Phase Two: Before Receiving Letter of Support
- Language test results (IELTS or TEF)
- Proof of settlement and business support funds
- Immigration status (for those already in Canada)
📝 Application Process in 5 Simple Steps
- Submit your online application and phase one docs
- Wait for North Forge’s review (within 2 weeks)
- Attend an interview & due diligence session
- Participate in 1-on-1 financial sessions and submit phase two docs
- Sign your agreement and get your Letter of Support!
🌍 Why Settle in Winnipeg?
Winnipeg, Manitoba is at the geographic heart of North America, giving your startup unmatched access to trade, logistics, and talent. It’s the perfect launchpad for scaling internationally.
👩💼 Women in Innovation Lab (WiLab)
North Forge is committed to diversity in tech and offers dedicated resources for women-led startups. Through WiLab, women innovators can access coaching, mentorship, and funding pathways designed just for them.
🔍 Powerful Tools at Your Fingertips
With North Forge, your startup can access:
- Pitchbook (3.6M companies, 481k investors)
- PatSnap (188M global patent records and legal insights)
These platforms give you the data edge to grow and compete globally.
👥 Meet the Experts and Angels Behind Your Journey
You’ll work closely with the NF Angel Network, a group of investors from Canada and the U.S., and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) who’ll guide you from concept to company.
✨ Ready to Start Your Startup Journey in Canada?
Canada’s Start-up Visa Program offers an incredible opportunity to build, grow, and settle in one of the most entrepreneur-friendly countries on the planet — and North Forge will be with you every step of the way.
👉 Apply now and bring your tech dream to life in Canada!
