TOP 3 INDUSTRIES CANADA WANTS FOR THE STARTUP VISA
If you’ve been thinking about moving to Canada as an entrepreneur, you’ve probably heard about the Canada Startup Visa. It’s one of the most exciting immigration programs because it doesn’t just bring you into Canada—it gives you the chance to grow your business in one of the world’s most supportive environments for startups.
But here’s the big question most people ask us: “Which industries does Canada really want for the Startup Visa?”
The truth is, while the program is open to many types of businesses, some sectors are more attractive to Canadian investors and government-backed incubators than others. From our 10+ years of experience at Loft Immigration, guiding clients successfully through their Canada Startup Visa application, we can tell you for sure that three industries stand out as the best industries for Canada Startup Visa:
-
Technology & Innovation
-
Healthcare & Life Sciences
-
Green & Clean Technology
Let’s talk through each of them in simple, practical terms.
1. Technology & Innovation
Technology is easily one of the best industries for Canada Startup Visa. Why? Because Canada is positioning itself as a global tech hub. Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver are attracting talent and investment from around the world.
Why Canada is keen on tech startups:
-
They create well-paying jobs.
-
They have the power to scale globally.
-
They drive solutions in every sector, from banking to transport to education.
Examples of tech businesses that Canada favors:
-
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning.
-
Fintech platforms like digital banking and online payments.
-
SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) solutions.
-
Cybersecurity and Blockchain innovations.
If you’re already running a tech business in Nigeria or Africa, expanding through the Canada Startup Visa application could be your next big move. You can also check our guide on Canada’s visa pathway for tech entrepreneurs for more insights.
Curious to know if your tech idea qualifies for the Startup Visa? Book an Evaluation Call today.
2. Healthcare & Life Sciences
Another area where Canada is actively inviting entrepreneurs is healthcare. With an aging population and increasing demand for better healthcare delivery, healthcare and life sciences are among the best industries for Canada Startup Visa.
Why healthcare businesses matter to Canada:
-
By 2030, 1 in 4 Canadians will be above 65 years old.
-
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the urgent need for digital healthcare and medical innovation.
-
Canadian universities and hospitals are global leaders in medical research, giving entrepreneurs strong partnership opportunities.
Examples of healthcare ideas Canada supports:
-
Biotechnology and new drug development.
-
Medical devices and diagnostic tools.
-
Health-tech apps and telemedicine platforms.
-
Elder care technology and wearable devices.6
If your business idea already solves real healthcare problems in Nigeria or other African countries, imagine how far it can go when scaled through the Canada Startup Visa. To avoid common mistakes, you may also want to read our article on the biggest mistakes Nigerians make with Canada Startup Visa application.
Ready to see if your healthcare business can open doors in Canada? Book an Evaluation Call.
3. Green & Clean Technology
The third big focus is green and clean technology. Canada is very serious about protecting the environment and has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. That’s why clean tech is one of the best industries for Canada Startup Visa.
Why Canada wants clean tech entrepreneurs:
-
The government provides grants, tax breaks, and funding to green businesses.
-
The global market for sustainable solutions is growing fast.
-
Canada’s natural resources make it ideal for renewable energy innovation.
Examples of clean tech businesses Canada favors:
-
Renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).
-
Recycling and waste management technology.
-
Sustainable agriculture and AgriTech.
-
Carbon capture and energy efficiency tools.
African entrepreneurs, especially Nigerians, are already solving challenges in energy and farming. The Canada Startup Visa application could be the pathway to take those solutions global. And if you’re wondering how to structure your idea properly, don’t miss our guide on how to write a business plan that can help you get Canada Startup Visa.
Building a clean tech business? Canada could be waiting for you. Book an Evaluation Call.
What This Means for You
While Canada is open to all kinds of businesses, these three — Technology, Healthcare, and Clean Tech — are the best industries for Canada Startup Visa applicants. Why? Because they solve big problems, create jobs, and have the potential to compete on a global stage.
If your business idea is innovative, can employ Canadians, and is scalable beyond Nigeria or Africa, then your Canada Startup Visa application has a much stronger chance of success.
At Loft Immigration, we’ve spent over a decade helping entrepreneurs, investors, and families navigate Canadian immigration. In fact, we’ve shared some of our insights from this journey in 5 lessons from our 10 years of providing successful Canadian immigration services. We know exactly how to package your business idea, secure support from designated organizations, and guide you step-by-step through your application.
The Canada Startup Visa isn’t just about immigration—it’s about opportunity. It’s Canada’s way of saying: “Bring us your innovative ideas, and we’ll give you the space to grow.”
Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, or green energy, the Startup Visa can be your pathway to Canada. And Loft Immigration is here to walk with you, just like we’ve walked with many successful clients before you.
Ready to take the next step? Book an Evaluation Call and let’s talk about your business and your future in Canada.
