Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream

A Step-By-Step Guide to the

Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream
Rural Entrepreneur
Stream
The Rural Entrepreneur Stream is an immigration program offered by the
province of Alberta that enables qualified immigrant entrepreneurs to be
nominated for permanent residency. This stream is designed for individuals
who aim to establish a new business or acquire an existing one in a rural
community within Alberta. According to the Alberta Advantage Immigration
Program, rural Alberta communities are defined as those with a population
under 100,000 residents. Additionally, the community must be located
outside of the Calgary and Edmonton Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs).
Rural Entrepreneur Stream Eligibility Criteria
Work Experience Investment
• Minimum 3 years as an active business owner/manager, • Minimum $100,000 investment from personal/spouse's
OR equity
• Minimum 4 years as a senior manager within the past 10 • Higher investment awarded more points
years
Education Business Ownership
• Completed high school or equivalent to Canadian standard • Minimum 51% for new business (partners must be
• Education Credential Assessment (ECA) from designated Canadian)
organization • 100% for business succession
• Not on ineligible business list

Language Job Creation

• Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 • At least 1 full-time job for Canadians (not relatives) for
in English or French new business
• Official test (CELPIP, IELTS, TEF, TCF) results within 2 • More jobs awarded more points
years • Not required for business succession

Net Worth Community Support

• Minimum $300,000 from personal/spouse's assets • Letter from participating rural Alberta community
Rural Entrepreneur Stream Process & Timelines
Initial-Assessment Exploratory Visit
Determine if they meet the eligibility requirements of the Rural Candidate will connect with the rural community to pitch their
Entrepreneur Stream. (1-2DAYS) business idea. (7 DAYS)

Virtual visit Business Exploration

A digital interaction allows businesses to explore and evaluate In-person visits to potential investment sites and meeting stakeholders
investment opportunities remotely. (Same day) directly to assess opportunities. (No time constraints.)

Business plan LOS from Community

A business plan explains how a company brings in money and Ensures the community is aware and supportive of the Business and
is run day - to - day.(10 - 15 DAYS) supports your retention in Canada. (5 DAYS)

Letter of Acceptance Submission too province

Candidates will complete and sign a Business Performance
Based on the information provided in the application
Agreement. (2 MONTHS)
candidates will be assessed. (10 DAYS)

Time to Invest Work permit

Establish and run business, meet the requirements set out in the
The work permit will allow the candidate to come to Canada to
Business Agreement(2 YEARS)
establish their Business. (2 WEEKS)

Permanent Residency
Submission of Permanent residency application
Rural Entrepreneur Stream Points Grid

Criteria Description Points

Rural Factor (25 points) Business Location (Mandatory) Max 25 points

- Tier 1 Less than 10,000 population 25

- Tier 2 10,001 to 50,000 population 17

- Tier 3 50,001 to 99,999 population 10

 Criteria Description Points

Business Experience Factor (20 points) Experience within the past 10 years (Mandatory) Max 20 points

- Business owner-manager 3 to less than 4 years 12

4 to less than 5 years 16

5 or more years 20

- Senior manager
4 to less than 5 years 12

5 to less than 6 years 16

6 or more years 20
 Criteria Description Points

Business Establishment Factors (60 points) Investment and Job Creation (Mandatory) Max 60 points

- Total Business Investment $100,000 to $399,999 5

$400,000 to $599,999 10

$600,000 to $799,999 15

$800,000 or more 20

- Net Worth $300,000 to $399,999 6

$400,000 to $499,999 8

$500,000 or more 10
 Criteria Description Points

- Job Creation 1 job 4

2 jobs 8

3 jobs 12

4 jobs 16

5 jobs or more 20

- Business Successions Takeover existing business 10

 Criteria Description Points

Human Capital Factors (35 points) Language Proficiency and Education (Mandatory) Max 35 points

- Language Proficiency CLB/NCLC 4 15

CLB/NCLC 5 20

CLB/NCLC 6 or higher 25

- Education High-school Diploma 4

Associate Degree/Diploma 7

Bachelor’s degree or higher 10

 Criteria Description Points

Experience, Relatives, Spouse’s Education/Language, Age (Not

Adaptability Factors (35 points) Max 35 points
Mandatory)

-
Rural Alberta (12-24 months) 10
Canada/Alberta Experience

Rural Alberta (more than 24 months) 15

Non-rural Alberta (18-30 months) 6

Non-rural Alberta (more than 30 months) 10

 Criteria Description Points

Canada (24-36 months) 3

Canada (more than 36 months) 5

- Relative(s) in Alberta Alberta 5

Community of residence 10

- Spouse’s Proficiency/Education CLB/NCLC 4 3

CLB/NCLC 5 4
 Criteria Description Points

CLB/NCLC 6 or higher 5

Certificate/Diploma (1 year) 3

Bachelor’s degree or higher 5

- Age 21 to 49 5

Maximum Points 175

 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What defines a rural community in the context of this stream?
• A rural community in Alberta is typically defined as a municipality or community with a population of less than
100,000 people, or a specific area identified by the Alberta government as requiring economic development.

2. What is the minimum investment required for the Alberta Rural Entrepreneurship Stream?
• Applicants must make a minimum investment of CAD 100,000 into the business they plan to establish or
purchase in a rural area of Alberta.

3. How long does the application process take?

• The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of the submitted
information. On average, it may take several months from the submission of the EOI to receiving a nomination.

4. Can my family members accompany me?

• Yes, your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children may be included in your application and can
accompany you to Alberta as permanent residents.
 Frequently Asked Questions
5. What types of businesses are eligible under this stream?
• Most types of businesses are eligible, except for those considered ineligible by the AINP, such as businesses
involving passive investments, real estate development, and certain franchises.

6. What support is available for new entrepreneurs in Alberta?

• Alberta offers various support programs for new entrepreneurs, including business advisory services, financial
resources, and networking opportunities through local economic development agencies and chambers of
commerce.

7. What happens if my application is rejected?

• If your application is rejected, you may be able to reapply if you address the reasons for the rejection. It’s
important to thoroughly review the feedback and ensure that all eligibility criteria and requirements are met
before reapplying.

8. Can I change my business plan after submitting my application?

• Significant changes to the business plan after submission may require reassessment of the application. It’s
crucial to inform the AINP of any substantial changes to avoid any potential issues with your application.
 Frequently Asked Questions
9. How can I demonstrate the economic benefit of my business to the rural community?
• Economic benefits can be demonstrated through job creation, providing essential services or products to the
community, contributing to the local economy, and engaging with local suppliers and partners.

10. Can I apply if I have a joint venture or partnership?

• Most types of businesses are eligible, except for those considered ineligible by the AINP, such as businesses
involving passive investments, real estate development, and certain franchises.

11. What types of expenses qualify toward the minimum investment requirement?
• Qualifying expenses typically include costs associated with establishing the business, such as purchasing
property, equipment, initial inventory, and other operational costs directly related to the business. Personal
living expenses do not count towards the minimum investment.

12. How do I prove my business management or ownership experience?

• You must provide documentation such as business registration certificates, tax records, financial statements,
and letters of reference from past business associates or partners to demonstrate your business management or
ownership experience.
 Frequently Asked Questions
13. What is the minimum net worth requirement?
• The minimum net worth requirement for the Alberta Rural Entrepreneurship Stream is CAD 300,000. This
includes all assets owned by the applicant and their spouse or common-law partner.

14. What happens if my business fails?

• While business failure is a risk in entrepreneurship, the AINP expects applicants to make genuine efforts to
establish and run a successful business. If your business fails despite your best efforts, you may be required to
provide a detailed explanation and demonstrate that you actively worked to address challenges.

15. Can I visit Alberta before applying to explore business opportunities?

• Yes, visiting Alberta before applying is highly recommended. A business exploratory visit can help you
understand the local market, meet potential business partners, and gather essential information for your
business plan.

16. Do I need to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents for my business?

• Yes, one of the key requirements is that your business must create jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent
residents, contributing to the local economy.
 Frequently Asked Questions
17. What are the monitoring and reporting requirements after receiving a nomination?
• After receiving a nomination, you will be required to report on your business activities periodically. This may
include submitting financial statements, progress reports, and other documentation to demonstrate that you are
meeting the program requirements.

18. What is the role of the community in the application process?

• The community can play a crucial role by providing a letter of support, offering local insights, and assisting in
the integration of the business into the local economy. Engaging with the community early in the process can
strengthen your application.

19. Can I apply if I have previously been refused under another AINP stream?
• Yes, you can apply for the Alberta Rural Entrepreneurship Stream even if you have previously been refused
under another AINP stream, provided you meet all the eligibility requirements for this stream.

20. What is the interview process like?

• If your application progresses to the interview stage, you will be invited to discuss your business plan in detail,
your business management experience, and your understanding of the local market and community where you
plan to establish your business. The interview may be conducted in person or via video conference.
 Frequently Asked Questions
21. Can my spouse or partner be involved in the business?
• Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can be involved in the business, and their experience and skills can
contribute to the business plan. However, the primary applicant must still meet all the eligibility requirements
independently

22. Is it possible to expedite my application?

• Generally, the processing times are fixed and depend on various factors, including the volume of applications.
However, providing complete and accurate information and promptly responding to any requests from the
AINP can help avoid unnecessary delays.

23. What measures can I take to ensure my business is successful in a rural community?
• To ensure business success, conduct thorough market research, engage with the local community, offer unique
products or services that meet local needs, and seek advice and support from local economic development
agencies.

24. What are the environmental regulations I need to be aware of?

• Businesses in Alberta must comply with local, provincial, and federal environmental regulations, which can
vary depending on the industry. It is important to consult with local authorities and possibly seek legal advice
to ensure full compliance.
 Frequently Asked Questions
25. Is it necessary to have a physical business location in the rural community?
• Yes, having a physical location in the rural community is typically necessary to demonstrate your business
presence and commitment to the community. This can also help in building local customer relationships and
credibility.

26. How can I demonstrate my commitment to the rural community?

• Commitment can be demonstrated through actions such as relocating to the community, engaging in local
events, establishing partnerships with local businesses, and contributing to community initiatives.

27. What are the risks of not meeting the business performance targets?
• Not meeting business performance targets, such as job creation or revenue projections, can result in the
revocation of your nomination. It is crucial to set realistic targets and diligently work towards achieving them.

28. Can I start a franchise under this stream?

• Yes, franchises are eligible, but the franchise must be a new establishment or a purchase of an existing
franchise in a rural community. You must meet all the investment and operational requirements.
 Frequently Asked Questions
29. What are the common reasons for application rejection?
• Common reasons for rejection include incomplete applications, unrealistic business plans, insufficient proof of
financial resources, lack of relevant business experience, and failure to demonstrate community benefit.

30. What are the healthcare requirements for immigrants?

• New immigrants to Alberta must apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage. Ensure you
have private health insurance until you qualify for AHCIP.

31. How does the Alberta Rural Entrepreneurship Stream align with federal immigration policies?
• The Alberta Rural Entrepreneurship Stream aligns with federal policies by working within the framework of the
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), allowing Alberta to nominate individuals for permanent residence based
on provincial economic needs.

32. Can my children attend school in Alberta?

• Yes, once you obtain permanent residency, your children can attend public schools in Alberta. Education is
publicly funded and available to all residents.
 Frequently Asked Questions
33. What are the living conditions like in rural Alberta?
• Rural Alberta offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community, lower cost of living, and access to
natural beauty and outdoor activities. It’s important to research and visit the area to understand the lifestyle.

34. Can I receive mentorship from established entrepreneurs in Alberta?

• Yes, various programs and organizations offer mentorship opportunities for new entrepreneurs, such as local
chambers of commerce, business incubators, and industry-specific associations.

35. What are the legal requirements for hiring employees in Alberta?
• Legal requirements for hiring employees include adhering to Alberta’s employment standards, providing
mandatory benefits like workers’ compensation, and ensuring a safe working environment. You must also
comply with federal regulations regarding payroll taxes and employment insurance.

36. What support is available for exporting products from Alberta?

• Support for exporting products includes services from Export Development Canada (EDC), the
Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS), and provincial export programs. These organizations
offer resources, financing, and market entry support.