Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) program is intended to attract foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish new, high-growth businesses in Canada. To be eligible for the Start-Up Visa program, entrepreneurs must be accepted into a program offered by a designated Canadian business incubator or accelerator like Spark Centre.

Spark Centre serves technology and innovation entrepreneurs who require knowledge and support to launch, develop and grow. We are dedicated to economic growth and sustainability in Durham Region and Northumberland County.

For all of those applying through our SUV program please ensure that you have used the Business Plan Template below. Only applications with this template will be considered.

To learn more about becoming a partnering agent with the Spark Group of Companies, please fill out the form at synergylab.ca/agents.

Spark Centre Eligibility Criteria

Immigration Canada Criteria

Depending on what stage your business is at when you arrive to Canada, we offer a range of services. To understand how we help your business grow once you have arrived in Canada, go here and select your level of business.

Startup Visa FAQs

Due to the large number of applications, our processing times have increased. You should expect a response within 4-6 months as we will process applications in the order in which they were received.   We appreciate your patience.

We would be delighted to arrange a tour of our facility, however, business plans are reviewed by staff and any questions will be emailed.  All applications and required documents must be submitted through our website portal.

You may want to consider registering for Synergy’s two-week cohort-based program, Pioneer Program, that is designed to introduce the immigrating start-ups to the Canadian way of doing business. You will gain access to workshops, mentorship, advisors and events. This program is ideal for start-ups that have technology and innovation embedded in products and are considering applying for a work permit or permanent residence visa, through the Start-up Visa Program.

We only support and accept companies with technology and innovation built into their products or services. 

At Spark Centre desk space is available at no cost for SUV clients after receiving Permanent Residency; however, offices are rented.
Visit synergylab.ca for all the information on how our programs can help your start-up succeed in the Canadian Market!