{"id":7154,"date":"2023-08-09T16:54:34","date_gmt":"2023-08-09T20:54:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/?page_id=7154"},"modified":"2026-01-05T13:13:23","modified_gmt":"2026-01-05T18:13:23","slug":"startup-visa","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/startup-visa\/","title":{"rendered":"Start-Up Visa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fafafa\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:35px\">Start-Up Visa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">**<strong>Please note that as of January 1, 2026, IRCC has put a pause on the Startup Visa program. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/immigration-refugees-citizenship\/news\/notices\/immigration-measures-entrepreneurs.html\">Click here for the official statement.<\/a><\/strong>**<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Start-Up Visa program is offered in <strong>two stages <\/strong>to ensure we are preparing the businesses for success. The first program is <strong>Blueprint, an exclusive 6-week premium training and mentorship experience<\/strong>. This program is designed to empower early-stage global tech entrepreneurs with the opportunity to validate their startup concepts and translate them into viable businesses in the Canadian Market and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The second program is <strong>Launchpad, a year-long bespoke coaching and mentorship experience. <\/strong>This program is designed to provide strategic advice while ensuring progress is achieved on a consistent basis through tactical learning and executional approaches. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:10%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2558\" height=\"2560\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9700 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-scaled.jpg 2558w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Collision-Day-3-IMG_3172-edited-2-1536x1536.jpg 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2558px) 100vw, 2558px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2558px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2558\/2560;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0;\"><iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.loom.com\/embed\/9b1d037b77384806b5c3e303e62acd83?sid=6ffa8b78-7753-492b-b6cd-1405b7b2e2b9\" frameborder=\"0\" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen style=\"position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%;\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:70%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">What to expect<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">By participating in the program, founders will unlock a comprehensive package of benefits, including interactive online workshops, personalized guidance from seasoned mentors, a collaborative community of peers, and a wealth of startup resources. Our goal is to guide you on the path to establishing a thriving business in Canada, making your entrepreneurial journey a success from concept to reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">The program will help refine and validate your concept through interactive virtual training and curated mentorship. You will engage with industry experts to gain foundational knowledge in building and growing a technology startup and join a network of like-minded individuals to discuss business challenges in a peer-to-peer format. Complete the Blueprint program and join the Launchpad Program to get your Letter of Support.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"109\" height=\"114\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2023\/03\/talk_icon.png\" alt=\"Conversation bubbles icon\" class=\"wp-image-3821 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 109px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 109\/114;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Community<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Upon completion of the 6-week cohort, select companies may have the opportunity to join the YSpace Launchpad Program which is a year long for continued growth through our support system.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"107\" height=\"112\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2023\/03\/lead.png\" alt=\"Speedometer icon\" class=\"wp-image-3807 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 107px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 107\/112;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Landing in Canada<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Get access to work and live in Canada as Canadian entrepreneurs or Tech Professionals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Letters of Support to apply for work permits and permanent residency are provided to founders in the Launchpad Program. Founders must successfully complete the Blueprint Program before applying to Launchpad.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"109\" height=\"114\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2023\/03\/triangles.png\" alt=\"A small and large triangle icon\" class=\"wp-image-3822 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 109px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 109\/114;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Growth frameworks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Gain practical knowledge on customer development and go-to-market strategies to launch your product. See how other great startups in Canada did it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"109\" height=\"114\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2023\/03\/checkmark.png\" alt=\"Checkmark in circle icon\" class=\"wp-image-3820 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 109px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 109\/114;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Milestone driven<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Actively work with peers and quality mentors toward the launch of your venture. Our programs are goal-driven, using proven frameworks that put founders in the driver seat while we help them reach their end destination.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-text-align-center has-white-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Timeline<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Blueprint (Stage 1) Applications<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Blueprint stage is a rolling basis throughout the year. YSpace is focused on selecting the top-quality 10 companies for the Permanent Residency letter of support. We will only be accepting 10 to 12 companies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Launchpad (Stage 2) Applications<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">*The Letter of Support will be issued at this phase*&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:1px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Applications Open <br><\/strong>This program has an open intake throughout the year via invitation only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:7px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong><meta charset=\"utf-8\"><strong>Applications Close<br><\/strong><\/strong>Selected ventures have a maximum of one year to complete the program. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Application process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns application-steps is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: One<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies apply online for the Blueprint program via the application form linked below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Please note that as of January 1, 2026, IRCC has put a pause on the Startup Visa program. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/immigration-refugees-citizenship\/news\/notices\/immigration-measures-entrepreneurs.html\">Click here for the official statement.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/yspace.apps01.yorku.ca\/forms\/view.php?id=42628\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Join the Waitlist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Two<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Schedule a video Meet and Greet with the YSpace team. An initial meeting will be set up to review the business as well as the current status of the company. This opportunity will also be used to understand the leadership team and concept viability better.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Three<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Selected companies will then be invited for a virtual pitch to the YSpace team followed by due diligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pitch sessions take place on a rolling basis. You\u2019ll be notified within two weeks after the pitch of your application status.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Four<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Accepted companies will be invited to join the Blueprint cohort. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Five<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Upon successful completion of over 80% of the Blueprint program, select businesses will be invited to join the Launchpad program and build their startups in Canada.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fafafa\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Program eligibility<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The founding team meets all <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/immigration-refugees-citizenship\/services\/immigrate-canada\/start-visa\/eligibility.html\">IRCC criteria<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Start-up Visa program serves early-stage founders <em>(up to a maximum of 5)<\/em> going through validating the feasibility of the concept in the Canadian market.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A website and Minimum Viable Product are required for program acceptance. We will be asking for a demonstration of the product.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We are looking for founders with innovative tech concepts. Founders who are driven, coachable, and collaborative with a growth mindset.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked<\/h4>\n\n\n<style>.kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:8px;}.kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 .kt-accordion-panel-inner{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{display:block;}.kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap .kt-accordion-pane:not(:first-child){margin-top:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-accordion alignnone\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-wrap kt-accordion-id7154_e410d9-05 kt-accordion-has-13-panes kt-active-pane-0 kt-accordion-block kt-pane-header-alignment-left kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow kt-accodion-icon-side-right\" style=\"max-width:none\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-inner-wrap\" data-allow-multiple-open=\"true\" data-start-open=\"0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-6 kt-pane7154_d3dc59-47\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Who is the Start-up Visa designed for?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>We are looking for early-stage Founders who are driven, coachable, and have a growth mindset that is looking to set up their business in Canada. The ideal company is likely still in ideation or early validation phases, with a goal to validate their market and launch an MVP in the next 3 months.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-7 kt-pane7154_e0bb33-0a\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Is there a specific industry or vertical that the accelerator focuses on?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>No, the program is sector-agnostic. All the resources and support are focused on technology-based ventures across all industries.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-9 kt-pane7154_7de91d-b6\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Is it only for York University students or alum?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>The program is open to everyone in the community, as long as they are dedicated founders who are willing to put in the committed time to grow the venture.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-10 kt-pane7154_1c815d-de\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">How much time will I have to commit?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>The Blueprint program operates throughout the year.<br>The program requires a commitment of 5 hours per week, specifically on Tuesdays and Thursdays, over a span of 6 weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>To graduate from the Blueprint program and proceed to the Launchpad program, founders must complete the Blueprint program with a required minimum pass score of 80%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>For the Launchpad program, it requires a commitment of 4 hours for workshops per month and a 30-minute monthly check-in meeting.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-11 kt-pane7154_d27481-74\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What are the different elements of the program?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>There are four (4) key components within the program:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weekly Peer-to-peer sessions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hands-on workshops with leading industry experts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Office hours with a private network of subject matter experts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A dedicated mentor guiding your entrepreneurial journey.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-12 kt-pane7154_f9ace2-e1\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">How many ventures will be chosen?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>A maximum of 10 ventures will be selected and recommended to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) each calendar year. These selected ventures will be put forward to the IRCC for consideration.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-13 kt-pane7154_8906b9-af\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">When will the StartUp Visa program open again?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>At this point in time, we do not have any more information on when the program will open up again. Please monitor the IRCC website for updates.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:10%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"589\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/04\/SUV-YSpace-1024x589.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11469 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/04\/SUV-YSpace-1024x589.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/04\/SUV-YSpace-300x173.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/04\/SUV-YSpace-1536x884.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/04\/SUV-YSpace.jpg 1800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/589;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center full-width-bg has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e31837\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Please note that as of January 1, 2026, IRCC has put a pause on the Startup Visa program.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/immigration-refugees-citizenship\/news\/notices\/immigration-measures-entrepreneurs.html\">Click here for the official statement from IRCC.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color\">Please reach out to yspace@yorku.ca if you have any questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--2\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/yspace.apps01.yorku.ca\/forms\/view.php?id=42628\">Join Programming Waitlist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Start-Up Visa **Please note that as of January 1, 2026, IRCC has put a pause on the Startup Visa program. Click here for the official statement.** The Start-Up Visa program is offered in two stages to ensure we are preparing the businesses for success. The first program is Blueprint, an exclusive 6-week premium training and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":807,"featured_media":0,"parent":4323,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7154","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Start-Up Visa - YSpace<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/startup-visa\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Start-Up Visa - YSpace\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Start-Up Visa **Please note that as of January 1, 2026, IRCC has put a pause on the Startup Visa program. 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