To apply for the Canada Start-up Visa Program, your business idea or venture must get the support of one or more of the designated organizations listed below:

  • Venture capital funds
  • Angel investor groups
  • Business incubators

Designated organizations are business groups that are approved to invest in or support possible start-ups through the Start-up Visa Program Canada.

Organizations choose which business proposals to review. Each organization has its own intake process for proposals and criteria used to assess them. For example, you may be asked to present your business concept in person or submit a detailed business plan.

If an organization decides to review your business idea, it will assess the potential of your proposal and whether it will succeed.

If an organization chooses to support your business idea, it will give you a Letter of Support.