Provincial Entrepreneur Programs

Canada's provinces each operate their own entrepreneur programs, each with varying requirements. Some of these programs aim to attract candidates to regions outside major cities. Below are details of provincial and territorial entrepreneur programs:

**British Columbia**

British Columbia offers three business streams:

1. **Entrepreneur Immigration**
   - Requirements:
     - Establish an eligible new business or purchase and improve an existing business in B.C.
     - Invest a minimum of $200,000 in the new or existing business.
     - Create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
     - Have a net worth of a minimum of $600,000.
     - Possess business and/or management experience.
     - Achieve Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 4 in English or French in each of the four competencies (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by the time of nomination.
     - Have, or be eligible for, legal immigration status in Canada.
     - Have been lawfully admitted in the country where you currently reside.
     - Pay a $300 registration fee, $3,500 application fee, and $1,000 fee.

2. **B.C. Entrepreneur Immigration – Regional Pilot**
   - Community Requirements:
     - Population of less than 75,000.
     - Located beyond 30 km from a municipality of more than 75,000 population.
     - Demonstrated capacity to support foreign entrepreneurs with a network of settlement and business support agencies.
     - Immigration and pilot-specific training must be completed by community representatives.
   - Candidate Requirements:
     - Desire to start a business and settle in a B.C. regional community.
     - Complete an exploratory visit.
     - Minimum of $100,000 CAD in eligible business investments.
     - Minimum personal net worth of $300,000 CAD.
     - CLB Level 4 in English or French in each of the four competencies by the time of nomination.
     - Minimum of 51 per cent ownership.
     - Minimum of one new job created.

3. **B.C. Entrepreneur Immigration – Strategic Projects**
   - Company Requirements:
     - Make a minimum equity investment of $500,000 to establish or purchase and expand an eligible business in B.C.
     - Create at least three new jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents for each foreign key staff member proposed (to a maximum of five key staff).
     - Establish or purchase and expand a company in B.C.

These programs offer opportunities for entrepreneurs and business professionals to establish and expand businesses in British Columbia, contributing to the economic development of the province. Please note that program requirements may change over time, so it's essential to refer to the official British Columbia government website or consult with immigration professionals for the most up-to-date information.