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Programme guides · Canada Federal Start-up Visa (SUV)

The Three Types of SUV Designated Organisation: Venture Capital Funds, Angel Investors and Business Incubators

Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director

Summary

SUV applicants needed support from a designated organisation: a venture capital fund, an angel investor group or a business incubator. How they differed, what they assessed, the process and the role of the commitment certificate.

Three types of designated organisation

Type Role under the programme Original minimum investment
Venture capital fund Invests in the business CAD 200,000
Angel investor group Invests in the business CAD 75,000
Business incubator Accepts the business into its programme Not applicable

These amounts applied under the original SUV; arrangements for any new programme are subject to official announcements.

What designated organisations assess

  • Whether the business is innovative
  • Whether it can create jobs for Canadians
  • Whether it can compete globally
  • The team’s background, ability and commitment
  • How far the product or prototype has progressed

Designated organisations set their own process and criteria.

Why the incubator route was most common

It needs no large investment, which suits start-up teams built around technology or an innovative idea.

The usual process

  1. Prepare the business plan and pitch deck
  2. Build a product prototype
  3. Submit a proposal to a designated organisation
  4. Pitch and interview
  5. Once accepted, receive the commitment certificate and letter of support

The commitment certificate

The commitment certificate and letter of support are the core of the permanent residence application, showing the organisation supports the business. The programme is currently paused and new certificates are not being issued.

FAQ

Can I choose any organisation?

It must be on the Government of Canada’s published list.

Can I approach several organisations?

Yes, but the application is based on the one that issues the commitment.

Do designated organisations always charge?

Arrangements vary by agreement.

Sources

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