Northwest Territories Business Nominee Program

Eligibility Requirements

• Investment Commitment:

  • Within Yellowknife: Invest a minimum of $200,000 CAD equity into starting or buying a business.
  • Outside Yellowknife: Invest a minimum of $100,000 CAD equity into starting or buying a business.

• Personal Net Worth:

  • Within Yellowknife: Demonstrate a personal net worth of at least $500,000 CAD.
  • Outside Yellowknife: Demonstrate a personal net worth of at least $250,000 CAD.

• Business Ownership: Own at least 33.3% of the business unless investing a minimum of $1,000,000 CAD, which allows for a smaller ownership percentage.

• Language Proficiency: Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 in English or French, demonstrated through valid test results from recognized language testing organizations.

• Experience and Knowledge:

  • Possess the necessary experience and education to successfully implement the business plan.
  • Demonstrate reasonable knowledge and understanding of the NWT and its economy.
  • Show reasonable communication skills appropriate for conducting business in the NWT and integrating into the local community.

• Financial Resources: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to start and operate the business and support oneself and any dependents for the duration of the Business Performance Agreement.

• Commitment: Be ready and willing to settle full-time in the NWT.

Application Process

1. Self-Assessment and Initial Research:

   • Evaluate your eligibility based on the program’s criteria.
   • Conduct thorough research on business opportunities and the economic environment in the NWT.

2. Exploratory Visit and Interview:

   • Undertake a business trip to the NWT for a minimum of four full business days to explore potential business locations and meet with local contacts.
   • Participate in a face-to-face interview with NTNP Business Stream staff to discuss the proposed business concept.

3. Expression of Interest (EOI):

   • Submit an EOI detailing your business concept and findings from your exploratory visit.
   • If the EOI is approved, you will receive an invitation to submit a formal application.

4. Formal Application Submission:

   • Provide a comprehensive application, including a detailed business plan, proof of net worth, language proficiency results, and other supporting documents.

5. Application Review and Business Performance Agreement (BPA):

   • The application will be assessed based on various criteria, including the potential economic benefit to the NWT, job creation for local residents, and the applicant’s ability to successfully implement the business plan.
   • If approved, sign a BPA outlining the terms under which the business plan will be executed.

6. Work Permit and Business Establishment:

   • Obtain a letter of support from the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment to apply for a two-year temporary work permit.
   • Establish and operate the business as per the BPA, actively managing day-to-day operations.

7. Nomination for Permanent Residency:

   • After successfully operating the business for at least 12 months and fulfilling all BPA conditions, apply for nomination for permanent residency through the NTNP.