TiE Toronto Startup Visa Program

Overview of the TiE Toronto Startup Visa Program program:

The TiE Toronto Startup Visa Program is a business incubation and investment-readiness platform that supports foreign entrepreneurs in securing permanent residency in Canada through the federal Startup Visa (SUV) program. As a Designated Entity approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), TiE Toronto provides Letter of Support (LoS) to qualifying startups, which is a required document for applying to Canada’s Startup Visa pathway. The program targets high-potential startups with globally scalable solutions and helps them gain access to Canada’s innovation ecosystem, business networks, mentorship, and capital. Once selected, entrepreneurs go through a structured acceleration program that includes tailored coaching, pitch refinement, business validation, and access to investor networks. TiE Toronto leverages its global TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) network to help these ventures grow, localize, and secure funding. Startups can either receive full incubation support or proceed directly to investor pitching, depending on their stage and readiness. Upon successful completion, TiE issues a Letter of Support that allows founders to apply for Canadian permanent residency. The program accepts applications throughout the year and is open to founders from anywhere in the world. It focuses on startups that are technology-driven or innovation-based, especially those working on scalable business models with traction or prototype-level validation.

Benefits of the TiE Toronto Startup Visa Program program:

• Letter of Support to apply for Canadas Startup Visa
• Immigration pathway to Permanent Residency
• Business incubation and acceleration
• Tailored coaching and mentorship
• Access to TiEs global network of mentors, advisors, and investors
• Workshops on pitching, scaling, and market entry in Canada
• Direct introductions to Canadian investors and ecosystem partners
• Soft landing support including legal, business setup, and immigration advice
• Support for spouse and dependents under PR application

Eligibility criteria of the TiE Toronto Startup Visa Program program:

• Location: Open to global applicants outside Canada
• Business Stage: Idea-stage to growth-stage startups with a minimum viable product or prototype
• Scalability: Must demonstrate potential for global scalability and market growth
• Business Model: Preference for tech-based, innovation-driven solutions
• Team: Founding team must be committed to building and scaling the business in Canada
• Ownership: At least 10% voting rights by the applicant, with no one holding more than 50% combined with other designated entities
• Expectations from Applicant: Participate in coaching sessions, complete pitch and business plan, and engage in investor readiness activities