Overview
The Entrepreneur Pathway of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program's Business Investor Stream is for experienced business owners and senior managers who want to establish or purchase a business in Manitoba and run it actively. After an Expression of Interest and a full application, successful candidates sign a Business Performance Agreement and come to Manitoba on a work permit. Once you meet the commitments in your agreement, Manitoba nominates you for permanent residence.
Who it’s for
- Experienced business owners and senior managers seeking PR through business
- Entrepreneurs open to settling in Winnipeg or a regional Manitoba community
- Investors ready to manage their business hands-on, day to day
Key requirements
- Several years of recent full-time experience as a business owner or senior manager
- A minimum personal net worth, legally obtained and verifiable
- Funds for an eligible investment in a business you establish or purchase in Manitoba
- Living in Manitoba and actively managing the business day to day
- Language test results that meet Manitoba's minimum level
- A competitive Expression of Interest and a well-researched business plan
- Commitment to fulfil your Business Performance Agreement within the required timeframe
How it works
- 01
Assess & plan
We review your business background, net worth and goals, and help plan an exploratory visit to Manitoba where it adds value.
- 02
Submit your Expression of Interest
We prepare your EOI, which is ranked against other candidates; top-ranked candidates receive a Letter of Advice to Apply.
- 03
Apply & sign the agreement
We prepare your full application and business plan. After assessment, which may include an interview, you sign a Business Performance Agreement.
- 04
Work permit & business launch
With Manitoba's letter of support, you apply for a work permit, move to Manitoba and establish or buy your business.
- 05
Nomination & permanent residence
Once you meet your agreement's terms and report on your business, Manitoba nominates you and we file your PR application.
Advantages
- Option to establish a new business or buy into an existing one
- Options to locate in Winnipeg or in regional communities across Manitoba
- Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your PR application
- A clear agreement sets out your business commitments from the start
Good to know
- Manitoba updates its business streams and EOI draws periodically — we confirm current criteria and intake before you commit.
- Nomination depends on meeting your Business Performance Agreement; your investment carries business risk and approval is not guaranteed.
- This is a work-permit-first program, not direct permanent residence, so plan for a multi-year timeline.
FAQ
Is this a direct permanent residence program?
No. Manitoba uses a work-permit-first model — you establish the business and meet your agreement before receiving a nomination for PR.
Do I need to visit Manitoba before applying?
An exploratory visit is often recommended — it helps you research the market and build a credible plan. We advise on the current requirements before you travel.
Can I buy an existing business?
Yes. Purchasing an existing Manitoba business is possible, subject to ownership and other program rules, and we review any opportunity with you carefully.
Last reviewed: October 2026. This page provides general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change often — we confirm the latest requirements for your situation during your consultation.