Start-Up Visa

A QUICK LOOK: START-UP VISA PROGRAM

APPLICATION

The application portal opens once every three months until the capacity of 150 applications is reached, typically within a week. YEDI assesses all applications within three months, those selected to move to the next stage of review will be invited to an online interview. An Expert Committee comprised of industry experts and partners will be responsible for evaluating applications based on set criteria. Selected candidates will be invited to participate in a formal due diligence process. Successful applicants will be issued a letter of support for their Start-up Visa application. 

Please note, due to the high volume of applications this program is highly competitive. Kindly consider this when submitting your application.  

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

In accordance with Canada’s Start-up Visa requirements, YEDI is looking for immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to build businesses in Canada that:

  • are innovative
  • can create jobs for Canadians
  • can compete on a global scale
  • a good fit for our incubator community
PROGRAM
All accepted applicants must become residents of one of YEDI’s Business Acceleration Campuses for a minimum of 12 months, upon arrival to Canada. Each entrepreneur will be matched with program advisors and mentors in order to provide guidance and assistance. Annual milestones are set and reviewed on a quarterly basis to ensure the venture is on track with its growth trajectory. 
INDUSTRIES
YEDI is sector agnostic and will consider start-ups from any industry.
LOCATION
YEDI’s Business Acceleration Campuses offering office space including a co-working space for early-stage entrepreneurs, commercial, industrial, medical, TV studio and theatre spaces.
TUITION
As a charitable organization, YEDI strives to make its programs accessible to entrepreneurs. Therefore, all educational components of this program are provided tuition free. Participants are only responsible to pay for use of space, provided at below market rate. 

* We value personal connections and encourage you to review our International program which allows entrepreneurs to become familiarized with Canada’s business landscape and meet with organizations supporting small business growth and development. Upon program completion, entrepreneurs will have the tools and expertise necessary to pitch and potentially bring their ventures to the Canadian market.

*Applications will reopen September 13, 2022*

*Please note, applications are still accepted at this time for the International Program.