Start-up Visa Program
The Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program helps international entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses in Canada, with direct support from Manitoba Innovates. As a designated organization, we help qualified founders fast-track their journey to permanent residency while building scalable, globally competitive ventures in Manitoba.
Through the SUV Program, you’ll gain access to mentorship, infrastructure, and an ecosystem of peers, investors, and industry partners, all while putting down long-term roots in one of Canada’s most affordable and connected provinces.
Program Benefits
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Access to office space, talent, and strategic support
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Personalized business coaching and mentorship
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Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residency
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Embedded in Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem
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Support preparing for immigration and business readiness milestones
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Opportunity to apply for investment or connect with Canadian investors
Eligibility
To apply, you must meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements:
- Own at least 10% of a Canadian-incorporated business
- Secure a Letter of Support from a designated organization
- Meet minimum language requirements (CLB 5 in English or French)
- Show proof of settlement funds
Manitoba Innovates also requires:
- TRL Level 5 or higher (working prototype or MVP)
- A clear intent to locate and operate in Manitoba
How to Apply
Submit your application directly through the form below with the following documents:
- Business plan (including market analysis, operating plan, and financial projections)
- Pitch deck (minimum 10 slides)
- Resumes for all applicants
- Proof of TRL 5 or higher
- Proof of settlement funds
- Language test results (English or French)
Fast-Track with Investment: SUV Investment Stream
Founders who secure $75,000+ in Canadian investment (VC, angel, or incubator-backed) are now prioritized for SUV application processing by IRCC.
Manitoba Innovates has already deployed $3M+ into high-potential startups and continues to offer direct equity, venture debt, and flexible loans. Qualified founders may also receive facilitated introductions to active investors in our national network.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be accepted into the SUV Program OR be an active SUV client
- Have TRL 5+, operations in Canada, and traction (early revenue, hires, or pilots)
Our investment review includes:
- Verification of company documents and cap table
- Financial model review (cash flow & projections)
- A 45-minute founder interview
Required documents:
- Pitch deck, financial model, term sheets, incorporation docs, traction metrics
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Contact Us
To express interest, email: @email or
Fill out the form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.