Start-up Visa Program
The companies of tomorrow in Canada today
About the Start-up Visa Program
Gateway to the North American market
TBDC is one of Toronto’s premiere start-up incubators and accelerators with a rich history dating back three decades. Since its inception, TBDC has worked with thousands of entrepreneurs by helping them build and grow their ideas. TBDC has helped over 9,000 domestic and international entrepreneurial businesses establish in Toronto and Ontario by offering to them a diverse mentor network, access to capital, and strategically designed programs. TBDC is a designated partner for the Start-up Visa Program by the Government of Canada to help businesses commercialize and expand in the North American market.
Why bring your start-up to Canada?
Meet Toronto, Canada's start-up hub
Canada has a growing reputation as the world’s leading tech hub, and not only embraces diversity but also is becoming a destination of choice for start-ups from around the world. More recently, according to StartupBlink’s rankings in 2020, Canada was ranked third in the world for building innovative solutions for COVID–19.
Located in the heart of North America, Ontario with 14 million residents speaking 200 languages Ontario is the 7th largest subnational economy in North America by GDP.With Over 42,000 STEM graduates produced annually, Toronto is the 3rd top-ranked tech talent market in North America after the San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle. From automotive to artificial intelligence, from hardware to health sciences and from environment to education, Canadian start-ups are applying technology to new verticals, and the disruption of a range of industries is on the cusp of innovation.
TBDC is Canada's Premier Start-up Visa Accelerator
A rich history meets innovation
TBDC is one of Toronto’s premiere start-up incubators and accelerators with a rich history dating back three decades. Since its inception, TBDC has worked with thousands of entrepreneurs by helping them build and grow their ideas. TBDC has helped over 9,000 domestic and international entrepreneurial businesses establish in Toronto and Ontario by offering to them a diverse mentor network, access to capital, and strategically designed programs.
TBDC is a designated partner for the Start-up Visa Program by the Government of Canada to help businesses commercialize and expand in the North American market.
Start-up Visa Program Eligibility
Who can apply
The Start-up Visa Program is open to all international businesses that have been incorporated. A qualifying business meets following conditions:
TBDC is a designated partner for the Start-up Visa Program by the Government of Canada to help businesses commercialize and expand in the North American market.
- Innovative businesses
- Market validation
- Founder or higher management
- Canadian entity will be incorporated
- Essential operations will be performed in Canada
Two month virtual (qualified start-ups)
- Partner Services Perks
- Advisory Hours
- Strategy & Deliverables
- Canadian & US Mentors
- Business Services
Six month in-office
- Business Advisory
- Access to Capital & Talent
- Flex Office Space
- Founder Development
- Network & Events
Your journey starts here
application process
Start-ups that have generated revenue in the home country, have paying customers and market traction are best suited for this program. We are open to founders from around the world working on solutions that have the potential to build business in Canada, and create jobs for Canadians on a global scale. To know more about the eligibility criteria click here.
2 Month
Pre-acceleration
(qualified startups only)
6 Month
Acceleration
$30k CAD
Program fee
Tell us about your current and proposed Canadian company with insights on your current revenue, ownership structure, competition and Canadian Roadmap. We’d also like to get to know your start-up through your pitch deck.
Based on the innovation, scalability and current traction of your start-up, founders will be invited to attend a Founder Interview. During this video interview which lasts up to 45 minutes, you will have the opportunity to share more about your company, its current progress and your plans for Canada.
Due-Diligence
If you are shortlisted, you will receive a Due-Diligence checklist from the TBDC Intake Team. You will be asked to upload information about your company in three categories; Overview, Financial, Applicant Details.
Panel Interview
After Due-Diligence, your team will be matched with a Mentor panel with expertise and connections in your industry, from the TBDC Ecosystem. The Mentor panel will dig deeper into your business plan, current offering and plan for the Canadian market.
Program Acceptance
Congratulations – your company has been accepted to TBDC’s SUV Program! Once the agreement is signed and the deposit is received, TBDC will issue a Commitment Certificate accompanied by a Letter of Support.
Tips for applying. Applying doesn’t need to be complex. Book a free call with TBDC today.