Startup Visa Program
The Canadian Launch-Pad for Global Entrepreneurs
The Startup Visa Program (SUV) is designed to draw international founders who wish to develop innovative, modern, and scalable companies in Canada. VDI offers an 8-week collaborative program that creates a path for global entrepreneurs by providing investment and specialized support services to launch their business ventures in North America.
VDI simplifies the transition between the Pre-Expansion Program and Startup Visa application through our partnership with a designated organization.
Accelerate with the Right Support
Raise $250K+
Our team will match you with like-minded, passionate investors. Our startups consistently raise more than $250K+ in funding.
Growth
We train our founders on how to succeed quickly. Our program provides access to foreign markets through Canada’s Free Trade Agreements.
Operational Support
VDI will work closely with you to develop and implement operational plans. We provide 2+ years of support from Pre-Expansion to launching in Canada.
Business Development
Our in-house team of financial analysts is committed to the growth of your startup. Together, we will construct your business plans using lean and agile methodologies.
Leadership
VDI provides the opportunity to connect with industry experts who have been where you are. You'll get a glimpse of what it takes to reach the next level.
Elevate your Pitch
We provide a variety of solutions that help you prepare your pitch. Our team works closely with you to ensure it is effective and persuasive.
Partner with CIAI
We partner with CIAI, a designated organization for the SUV Program and a member of the National Angel Capital Organization.
Immigrate to Canada
After completing the Pre-Expansion Program with VDI, you submit your Permanent Residency application.
Own a technology-based business
Apply to VDI's Startup Visa Program
Pitch for a Letter of Support from CIAI
Raise Funding and Submit SUV Application
We partner with CIAI
CIAI (Canadian International Angel Investors) is a designated Government of Canada Startup Visa organization and a member of NACO, the National Angel Capital Organization.
Letter of Support
When submitting your Startup Visa application to the IRCC, you must receive a letter of support from a designated organization that is approved to invest in startups. After completing the VDI's Startup Visa Program, you are provided the opportunity to pitch to the CIAI to obtain your Letter of Support.
Join the Future of Startups
Become a part of our Global Network of Entrepreneurs
180+
Startups Incubated
45+
Countries
$45M+
Capital Raised
$950K+
Perks
Do you Qualify?
To qualify for the Startup Visa Program your business must meet these criteria
- Your business must be technology-based
- Your business must provide an innovative solution to a particular problem
- Your business will provide value to potential customers beyond its cost
- The key people involved in the business must relocate to Canada
- You must have sufficient funds to cover the Startup Visa Program
- You must prove that you have the money to support yourself and your dependents after you arrive in Canada
- You must meet the minimum level of the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in either English or French
To learn more about the Canadian Government Startup Visa Program and its eligibility requirements, click here.
Discover • Innovate • Grow
VentureOS
When you join our Startup Visa Program, you are automatically enrolled in VentureOS. Our powerful entrepreneurship platform supports individuals, startups, and corporations. We offer exclusive discounts on perks and resources to accelerate your business.
