List of designated organizations – start up visa
If you're looking to apply for the Start-up Visa Program in Canada, your business idea or venture must receive support from one or more of the designated organizations listed on the official government website. These designated organizations include venture capital funds, angel investor groups, and business incubators, which are business groups approved to invest in or support potential start-ups through the Start-up Visa Program.
Each organization has its own criteria and intake process for reviewing business proposals. Some may require a detailed business plan, while others may ask for an in-person presentation of your business concept. If an organization decides to review your proposal, it will assess its potential for success and determine whether or not to give you a Letter of Support.
To be eligible for the Start-up Visa Program, you must receive support from at least one of the designated organizations listed on the government website. These organizations include:
Venture Capital Funds: At least one group must agree to invest a minimum of $200,000. The list of approved venture capital funds includes 7 Gate Ventures, BDC Venture Capital, Celtic House Venture Partners, and more.
Angel Investor Groups: At least one investor connected to one of the approved groups must agree to invest a minimum of $75,000. Approved groups include Canadian International Angel Investors, VANTEC Angel Network Inc., and York Angel Investors Inc.
Business Incubators: You must be accepted into one of the approved programs, such as Alacrity Foundation, Innovation Factory, NEXT Canada, or Waterloo Accelerator Centre.
For more information on the Start-up Visa Program and a complete list of designated organizations, please visit the official Canadian government website: