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Rad supports your startup through the incubator process, clearly and confidently.

What Is Letter of Support (LOS)?

A Letter of Support (LOS) is one of the most important documents in your Startup Visa application. It’s an official letter issued by a designated Canadian business incubator, angel investor group, or venture capital fund. This letter confirms that they believe in your business idea and are willing to support your venture in Canada. Without an LOS, your application can’t move forward. That’s why getting it right matters so much.

 At Rad Immigration, we help you prepare everything needed to apply—your pitch deck, documents, and strategy—so you can confidently approach incubators and increase your chances of getting approved.

Why the Letter of Support Matters?

Required for Startup Visa application

Validates your business potential

Builds trust with IRCC

Proves you're ready to grow

Moves you closer to permanent residency

Understanding Designated Organizations (DOs)

Designated Organizations (DOs) are officially approved Canadian business groups, such as incubators, angel investor networks, or venture capital firms that have been authorized by IRCC to support Startup Visa applicants. Their role is to evaluate your startup idea and, if they believe in your potential, issue a Letter of Support (LOS), which is a required part of your visa application. These organizations are trusted by the Canadian government to back real, innovative, and scalable businesses. Simply put, without a DO’s endorsement, you can’t move forward with the Startup Visa. That’s why choosing the right one and approaching them the right way matters.

Different Types of Designated Organizations (DOs)

1

Venture Capital Funds

Venture capital funds are firms that invest substantial amounts of capital into startups with high growth potential. They typically seek equity in exchange for their investment and often provide strategic guidance to help scale the business.

Investment Requirement:

To support a Start-Up Visa application, a designated venture capital fund must invest a minimum of $200,000 CAD into the applicant's business.

2

Angel Investor Groups

Angel investor groups consist of high-net-worth individuals who provide capital for startups, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity. They often invest during the early stages of a business and may offer mentorship alongside funding.

Investment Requirement:

A designated angel investor group must invest a minimum of $75,000 CAD into the applicant's business to support a Start-Up Visa application.

3

Business Incubators

Business incubators provide support services to startups, including mentorship, office space, and access to networks. Unlike venture capitalists or angel investors, incubators may not provide direct funding but focus on nurturing the business to succeed.

Requirement:

To support a Start-Up Visa application, a designated business incubator must accept the applicant into one of its incubation programs.

Securing support from one of these Designated Organizations is a crucial step in the Start-Up Visa application process, as it validates the potential of your business idea and provides essential backing for your venture in Canada.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting LOS

1

Develop Your Business Idea

Shape an innovative, scalable concept with strong market potential.

2

Identify Designated Organizations

Research incubators, angel groups, or VCs approved by IRCC.

3

Tailor Your Business Plan

Align your business materials with the goals of the DO you’re targeting.

4

Submit Your Application

Apply directly to the DO or through their preferred channels.

5

Present Your Pitch

If selected, deliver a clear, compelling pitch to showcase your idea.

6

Go Through Evaluation

The DO reviews your team, product, and potential to decide on support.

7

Receive Your LOS

If approved, the DO will issue your official Letter of Support to applying for the Startup Visa.

Stuck somewhere in the process?

Let’s talk. We’re here to guide you at every stage of your Startup Visa journey.