Location matters when launching a business as a newcomer in Canada, and Manitoba stands out as one of the most supportive provinces for immigrant entrepreneurs. With its affordable cost of living, collaborative business ecosystem, and active provincial programs, Manitoba offers a welcoming environment where newcomer-owned businesses can start strong and scale sustainably.

At Change of Phase Consulting Group, we work closely with aspiring business owners looking to establish themselves in Canada. This blog explores how Manitoba helps newcomers turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

🌾 Why Choose Manitoba?

Manitoba may not be the first province that comes to mind for new immigrants, but it’s quickly gaining recognition as a hidden gem for small business development. Here’s why:

• Affordable startup costs: Lower commercial rents and real estate prices make starting easier.
• Supportive immigrant community: Winnipeg and other cities have large, vibrant newcomer populations.
• Proactive provincial programs: The Manitoba government actively encourages and supports immigrant entrepreneurship through targeted initiatives.

💼 The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) – Business Investor Stream

One of the most significant supports Manitoba offers newcomer entrepreneurs is the MPNP—Business Investor Stream. This stream allows the province to nominate experienced businesspeople who intend to establish a new business or invest in an existing one.

There are two main pathways under this stream:

1. Entrepreneur Pathway

This is for newcomers planning to open a business in Manitoba. Key features include:

• Minimum investment: $150,000 for companies outside Winnipeg; $250,000 if within Winnipeg.
• An exploratory visit is required to meet with local stakeholders and assess business potential.
• Job creation: A Canadian citizen or permanent resident must create at least one job.
• Performance agreement: Nomination for permanent residency is conditional upon business implementation.

2. Farm Investor Pathway

It is designed for individuals with proven farm business experience who plan to operate a farm in rural Manitoba.

🛠️ Government and Community Support for Newcomer Entrepreneurs

Beyond the immigration pathway, Manitoba offers practical, on-the-ground support for newcomer business owners:

📍 1. Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW)

Provides business planning tools, market data, and networking opportunities to help new entrepreneurs understand local trends and succeed.

📍 2. World Trade Centre Winnipeg

Offers free one-on-one business consultations, workshops, and resources for immigrant entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their ventures.

📍 3. Futurpreneur Canada (Manitoba)

Supports young entrepreneurs—including newcomers—with financing, mentoring, and business support services.

📍 4. SEED Winnipeg

A local non-profit that helps low-income and newcomer entrepreneurs develop business plans, access financing, and navigate the startup process.

📍 5. Immigrant Centre Manitoba

Helps newcomers with settlement support, language training, and business integration, ensuring they can access key services in the early stages of business development.

🧭 Real-Life Impact: Newcomers Who Thrive

Manitoba’s welcoming approach has led to the success of many immigrant-owned businesses, from grocery stores and restaurants to IT firms and logistics companies.

These businesses contribute to the local economy, help diversify communities, create jobs, and inspire the next wave of entrepreneurs.

“In Manitoba, I found not just a place to live but a place to grow my business,” says Amina, a newcomer from Kenya who opened a popular East African restaurant in Winnipeg with help from SEED Winnipeg.

🗺️ Thinking of Starting a Business in Manitoba?

Manitoba might be the ideal place to start your journey if you’re an aspiring newcomer entrepreneur. With its mix of financial incentives, strategic support, and collaborative community, the province is deeply invested in the success of its newcomers.

At Change of Phase Consulting Group, we specialize in helping newcomer entrepreneurs navigate every step of the immigration and business planning process.

📩 Get in touch today to learn how we can help turn your vision into a viable business in Manitoba.