Yukon Immigration Entrepreneur Category

Yukon is a majestic and mysterious land with a wealth of investment opportunities. It is one of Canada's best kept secrets. More than 80 per cent of the Yukon is wilderness. The territory is one of the last great frontiers left in the world with an abundance of natural resources and untapped business potential. With just over 30,000 people, Yukoners are a special kind of people who share a remarkable spirit and a unique connection with the land. Over 20 per cent of Yukon residents are of aboriginal origin and First Nations' culture plays an important part of the political, social, business and government environment. Celebrating our diversity and respecting each other and the land is central to the harmonious and peaceful life in Yukon.

But enjoying Yukon's comparative lack of crowds doesn't necessarily mean roughing it. Yukon has a sophisticated side with a vibrant arts and cultural community. Yukon boosts an international airport, a college, world-class recreational and art centers, major shopping centers along with a variety of independent retail outlets, modern hospitals, a diverse school system, government and private museums and a rich array of festivals and events. There is something for the whole family.

Eligibility

Yukon is seeking people with a business experience who can start a new business, partner with existing businesses, or buy and operate an existing business in order to enhance the production and marketing of goods, services, exports, technology or research in the priority sectors.

Eligibility is restricted to people who:

• can demonstrate the ability to implement their business plan. This may include having experience in operating a business. (Working as a manager or an employee in corporation does not necessarily provide skills to own and operate your own business.)

• have visited Yukon at least once within the last three years and as a consequence, have an understanding of the business and social environment. Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the program officers in the Business and Trade Branch of the Department of Economic Development when they visit Yukon.

• can demonstrate reasonable communication skills in one of Canada's official languages in order to operate a business in Yukon

• have a minimum net worth of CAD$250,000.

Priority Business Sectors

While business is welcome in most sectors the priority areas to be targeted include:

• Information Technology

• Manufacturing

• Value Added Processing

• Forestry

• Tourism Products, Attractions, Services and Facilities

• Energy

• Mining/Mineral Development

• Agriculture

• Cultural Industries including film and video production

Retail, as a stand-alone operation is not a priority sector. This includes such activities as merchandising and food & beverage services (restaurants).

Business Requirements

In order to be nominated an individual must plan to be actively involved in the management and operation of the business. A passive investment, such as in real estate or simply as a shareholder or partnership where the person is not actively involved in the operation of the business does not meet the requirements of the program. There is a requirement for equity investment in the business to ensure its viability. The minimum amount is CAD$150,000, but the actual amount may be higher depending upon what is actually required to successfully start or acquire and operate the business. The money may not be used as part of a home-based business and include personal assets such as a residence or other personal assets that are used in a business. The business must create new employment opportunities or maintain and enhance existing employment for other Yukon residents. A business that was purchased or started by a previous business immigrant within the last five years is not eligible unless at least 50% fifty per cent of the minimum investment amount is used to expand the business.