Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP: A Complete Guide for Business Owners

Executive Summary 

Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP offers global entrepreneurs and senior managers a direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence through business ownership. This program is designed for entrepreneurs who want to become Canadian permanent residents and want to live in Manitoba. 

Applicants begin by submitting an Expression of Interest, followed by an invitation to apply if their profile is competitive. Approved applicants sign a Business Performance Agreement and apply for a work permit, allowing them to relocate to Manitoba (with their family) and establish or purchase a business. During this “performance period”, entrepreneurs must actively manage the business, make the required investment, create jobs, and reside in the province before becoming eligible for permanent residence. 

Successful applicants must demonstrate a minimum personal net worth of CAD $500,000 and be prepared to invest CAD $150,000 to CAD $250,000. Manitoba is one of 2 provinces that offer applicants an expedited timeline to permanent residence and flexible consideration. Manitoba offers global entrepreneurs a growing economy, a fast-track to PR and a calm and quiet lifestyle for their families.

What is Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP? 

The Manitoba PNP Entrepreneur Pathway sits under Manitoba’s Business Investor Stream. It is designed to attract businesspeople who have the intent and ability to start or purchase a business in Manitoba, operate it actively, and secure permanent residence for their families. 

To be eligible, you must: 

• Have a minimum of 3 years of experience as an active business owner (33.33%) or senior manager in the last 5 years 

• Have at least a high school diploma 

• Achieve CLB 5 in an approved language test (i.e. IELTS General 5) 

• Have a minimum verifiable net worth of CAD $500,000 

• Be prepared to invest CAD $150,000 – CAD $250,000 in their businesses

Who is Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP Designed For? 

This pathway is a strong fit for people who: 

• Have built real businesses (or managed them at a senior level) 

• Want permanent residence and a long-term plan for themselves and their family 

• Are ready to live in Manitoba and actively run a business (not manage remotely) 

• Want a business immigration option that is structured and performance-based 

Provincial Overview: Manitoba

Manitoba is a centrally located Canadian province with a population of approximately 1.4 million people. It offers a strong balance of economic opportunity, affordability, and long-term stability. Its capital and largest city, Winnipeg, serves as the province’s commercial, transportation, and cultural hub, while regional communities across Manitoba provide additional opportunities for growth and investment.

The province is known for its diverse and resilient economy, with key industries including manufacturing, agribusiness and food processing, transportation and logistics, aerospace, clean technology, and professional services. Operating costs – such as commercial real estate and labour – are generally lower than in larger Canadian markets, allowing entrepreneurs to establish and grow businesses in a stable, cost-efficient environment. The province is particularly supportive of business development outside major urban centres, where competition is lower and local demand is strong.

Manitoba offers a high quality of life supported by affordable housing, short commute times, publicly funded healthcare, and a strong education system. The province is widely recognized for its welcoming, multicultural communities and effective newcomer settlement services. With access to vibrant urban amenities in Winnipeg and abundant natural landscapes across the province, Manitoba is well-suited for entrepreneurs and families seeking long-term security, community integration, and a balanced lifestyle in Canada.

Manitoba Entrepreneur PNP Overview

What are the Steps in the Manitoba Entrepreneur PNP?

Milestone One: Finding Your Business 

Like other Provincial Nominee Programs, Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP allows entrepreneurs to start or buy businesses in the province. This forms the basis for their application. 

What this means practically is that defining your business is the most critical step in the process. Successful entrepreneurs will complete thorough market research to prepare their business plan, complete with comprehensive financial and hiring plans. 

While not required, Manitoba strongly encourages completing an “Exploratory Trip” so you can get to know the economic landscape and business opportunities. The “Exploratory Trip” is a purposeful visit to your preferred city or town to research opportunities, understand the market, assess its suitability for business and personal goals, and meet with stakeholders and Economic Development Officers. 

Helpful Tip: When searching for a business, start your search within the industries you have experience in. This can significantly improve the commercial viability and success of your business operations. 

Milestone Two: Expression of Interest (EOI) 

Once you have defined and finalized your business plans, you must start by submitting a profile, called an “Expression of Interest,” via email. Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP asks applicants to submit 3 documents: 

1. The “Business Concept Form” 

1. The “Self-Assessment Form” 

1. The “MNP Code of Conduct” 

Your EOI will highlight to the province how you meet and exceed their minimum eligibility requirements and provide them with a comprehensive overview of your planned business. 

Unlike other provinces, Manitoba considers EOIs on a rolling basis and assesses them within a 4-week window. If your application needs more work, the province will provide you with feedback to improve or change your business concept, and you’ll be able to resubmit your EOI after 2 months. 

Successful candidates will receive a Letter of Advice to Apply and submit a “Business Application”. 

Milestone Three: Business Application 

If you are selected, Manitoba will invite you to submit a formal application called a “Business Application”. You must include the following with your Business Application: 

• Completed application forms 

• Proof of Identity 

• Proof of business ownership or senior management experience 

• Proof of education with a formal Education Credential Assessment 

• Approved language test results 

• Your business establishment plan 

• Net Worth verification report prepared by one of the province’s prescribed partners 

You will have 120 days to complete and submit this application. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by at least 2 Business Immigration Officers (BOIs) of Manitoba. 

Successful applicants will be invited to sign a contract, known as a “Business Performance Agreement,” with the province. This contract outlines your commitments and timelines to secure your nomination from the province. 

The Business Performance Agreement will be based on your business plan, and usually outlines two specific commitments you must meet: 

1. A commitment to spend your pledged investment according to the investment schedule you submitted; and 
2. A commitment to creating at least 1 job for a Canadian Citizen of Permanent Residence in Manitoba, if you establish a new business, or maintain existing full-time job(s), if you purchase an existing business in Manitoba.

You will have 60 days to review and sign this agreement, after which, you will receive a Letter of Support under Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP.

Helpful Tip: It takes up to 60 days for the province’s partners to complete their net worth evaluation. Make sure you’re prepared to provide them with the documents and information they need in advance to avoid missing your window to apply.

Milestone Four: Work Permit and Performance Period 

Once you have signed the Business Performance Agreement, you’ll receive your Work Permit Support Letter and your Nominee Candidate Letter of Confirmation. You will have 90 days to submit your C60 work permit application to IRCC, and 12 months from the day you receive your letter to arrive in Canada on a work permit status. IRCC will usually issue a 2-year work permit for you, an open work permit for your spouse, and study permits for your children.

Once you receive your work permit, your performance period will begin. This period is typically 6 – 20 months long.  During this time: 

• You must move to and live within 100 km of your business 

• Commit to spending 80% of your time managing your business in person 

• Fulfill the terms of the performance agreement. This includes making your investment and hiring Canadian citizens or permanent residents. 

• Maintain the ongoing operations of your business 

You will be asked to submit two Progress Reports.  

• The first within 6 months of arriving in Canada on your work permit; and 

• You must submit your final report within 6-20 months of receiving your work permits. 

Helpful Tip: Plan to hire your employees within the first 6 months of your performance period. The provinces will look to see that you have a hiring history of at least 2-4 months to consider your hiring commitment met. 

Milestone Five: Request for Nomination for PR 

At the end of your performance period, you will need to prepare and submit your Final Report and Request for Nomination. This will include a final report on your business progress, including confirmation of ongoing business operations, corporate financial statements reviewed by a CPA, and your hiring records to ensure that your performance agreement has been executed. You will need the Nomination Certificate to apply for permanent residence as a Provincial Nominee. 

Your nomination will come with a “Conditions of Nominations” declaration, outlining the conditions you must maintain while you wait to receive your permanent residence. 

Helpful Tip: Manitoba requires candidates to spend at least 6 months running their business before they submit the final report. If you have met your commitments under the Business Performance Agreement within this time, you can submit your final report and request your nomination early, expediting your timeline to PR. 

Milestone Six: Permanent Residence Application 

The last step in the process is to submit your permanent residence application once you’ve received your nomination. Your nomination will be valid for 6 months, during which you’ll be expected to submit your PR application. You can apply for permanent residence directly through the province’s systems. 

How Much Does Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP Cost?

Want a personalized estimate? Check out our fee calculator!

Key Advantages of the Manitoba PNP Entrepreneur Pathway 

1. Accelerated Timeline

Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP is one of only 2 across Canada that can accept a performance period of just 6 months instead of 12. If you’re able to meet your commitments during these initial 6 months, you can request your nomination and speed up your pathway to PR. 

2. Expedited Processing for Entrepreneurs who have Already Invested 

If you have already moved to Manitoba and have been running your business in person for at least 6 months, Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP allows you to “bypass” the performance period. They will retroactively count qualified investments that you’ve made into your business and the time spent managing it. 

In this case, once you’ve signed your Business Performance Agreement, you can submit your final report right away and receive your nomination. 

3. Limited Competition 

Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP sees less volume than other provinces. In 2024, the province received just 37 Expressions of Interest, and only 22 Business applications were submitted. This means that Manitoba offers global entrepreneurs less competition, a greater chance of success, and a less saturated environment in which to build their businesses. 

Success Factors for Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP 

1. Do Thorough Business Research 

A successful applicant knows to invest time up front for thorough research, to avoid complications or delays down the line. Your research will be the basis of your EOI and the primary point of assessment before you receive a Letter of Advice to Apply, and at the heart of the business plan you submit. If the Business Immigration Officers are not satisfied that you’ve done enough research to produce a viable business, they may decline your EOI, and you will need to wait 2 months before trying again. 

2. Prepare your documents in advance 

Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP requires you to complete a net worth verification as part of your business application. You will only have 120 days to submit your application, and the net worth verification process requires extensive documentation. Be prepared and have these documents ready in advance: 

• Employment records 
• Business registration records 
• Certified business valuation reports if you have shares in any businesses 
• Corporate and personal tax documents and audited financial statements 
• Purchase records for any properties, including proof of payment or transfer 
• Certified valuation reports for any of your properties 
• Your banking history and proof of income

3. Operational readiness

Successful applicants plan ahead and prepare to execute their business plan as soon as they arrive in Manitoba to benefit from the expedited timelines that the Entrepreneur PNP program offers if you want to move quickly through the nomination period and receive your PR more quickly. 

Applicants typically overlook foundational administrative steps like applying for social insurance numbers, obtaining a driver’s license and health card, opening both corporate and personal bank accounts, and corporate tax and payroll accounts. 

While individually they don’t seem like much, together they can delay your timeline and divert your focus.  In our experience, applicants who plan for at least 12 months of in-country setup time are better equipped to succeed. 

Manitoba Entrepreneur PNP vs. New Brunswick Business PNParastyle Comparison 

Manitoba and New Brunswick are two provinces that offer a minimum performance period of 6 months, so you may be wondering, ” What’s the difference between the two?”

Frequently Asked Questions about Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP

How much do I need to invest in Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP? 

You need to invest CAD $250,000 if your business is inside the Winnipeg Metro Area, or CAD $150,000 if it is outside of the Winnipeg Metro Area 

Do I have to make any investments before coming to Canada?

No, you do not need to make any investments before you get your work permit. However, if you have already made a qualified investment, the province will consider it towards your required investment as part of the program. 

Can I change my business plan after I get my work permit? 

Yes, you can technically submit a written request for a ‘Change of Business’ within 12 months of receiving your work permit. The province will assess it based on the same criteria as at the time of your initial application. The province does not guarantee approval of your request and will accept only one request. We strongly encourage spending time researching and building your business plan before beginning the process. If you’re not sure where to start, our team can help! 

I already own a business in Manitoba, can I still apply for the Manitoba Entrepreneur PNP? 

Yes, Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNPs accept applications from business owners who have already invested in and are actively managing their business. They can retroactively count any investment you made into your business, and count the time you have spent in Manitoba actively managing the day-to-day operations of your business. In this way, you may be able to skip over the typical “performance period” and jump straight to nomination and PR. 

What happens if I don’t meet my performance agreement? 

If you do not meet the terms of your business performance agreement, you likely will not receive your nomination. You can also submit a written request to the province for an extension up to 30 days before your work permit. You should prepare to provide information and documents to support your request. 

Tools & Resources for the C60 Work Permit 

These tools and official resources can help you assess eligibility, understand program requirements, and prepare the supporting documents you need. 

Assessment Tools 

• Fee Calculator 

Official Government Resources 

• Manitoba’s Entrepreneur PNP 

Supporting Document Resources 

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Organizations 
  • Designated agencies authorized to assess foreign education credentials for Canadian equivalency. 
• Approved Language Testing Providers 
  
  • Information on accepted English and French language tests for business immigration programs. 

About Sobirovs Law Firm 

Sobirovs Law Firm focuses exclusively on Canadian business immigration. We are a team of Licensed Immigration Lawyers and Consultants who help entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners navigate provincial and federal business immigration pathways. Our team combines legal expertise with practical business understanding to turn complex situations into success at sobirovs.com.