Northwest Territories Business Stream

The Business Stream is for people who want to start a business in the NWT, purchase an existing business based here, or invest in and operate an existing business based here.

To apply via the Business Stream, there are some criteria you must meet:

1. Applicants must commit to invest:

• • • A minimum of $300,000 CDN equity* into starting or buying a business within the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; or
    • A minimum of $150,000 CDN equity* into starting or buying a business outside of the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

2. You must demonstrate you own at least 33.3% of the business, unless your personal equity investment is at least $1,000,000 CDN, in which case you may own less.

3. You must also provide proof that you have a personal net worth of:

• • • At least $500,000 CDN if starting or buying a business within the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; or
    • At least $250,000 CDN if starting or buying a business outside the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

4. You must demonstrate that they have achieved a level of proficiency of CLB 4 in English or French upon application.

5. You must demonstrate reasonable knowledge and understanding of the Northwest Territories and its economy

6. You must demonstrate reasonable communication skills appropriate to conduct business in the Northwest Territories and to integrate into the local community;

7. You need to have the necessary experience and education to successfully implement the business plan;

8. You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to start and operate a business and support themselves and any dependents for the duration of the applicant’s Business Performance Agreement;

9. You can not have an active application with any other provincial or territorial nominee program; not have an active application with any other stream of the Nominee Program in the Northwest Territories; and not be a Refugee Claimant

10. And of course, you must be ready and willing to settle full-time right here in the NWT!