There’s been lots of good news for Canadian entrepreneurs, particularly for immigrants and potential immigrants who want to start businesses in Canada or work in the country’s technology sector.

But immigration policies are in flux, too, so you’ll need to keep on top of the changes.

Here’s a round-up of some recent news:

In a dispatch from the World Congress on Information Technology, held recently in Montreal, TechVibes quoted a number of entrepreneurs who believe that Canada is an amazing place to launch a startup. “There are challenges to building companies in Canada,” the article noted, “But those challenges are no greater than ones faced elsewhere in the world.”

This article, Canada Seeks to Attract Technology Professionals, from a Canada immigration newsletter, reports on Canada’s job market for technology and science professionals. And yes, it says that that market is good!

The Financial Post reports on Calgary’s business culture and on why Calgary is an entrepreneur’s dream.

In Ontario, the Kitchener-Waterloo region fosters a culture of startups.

Also in Ontario, several programs are helping match immigrants with small business jobs. These programs include:

• the Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professional at York University, which provides courses and support services to assist people educated elsewhere in making the transition to working in Canada.
• ACCES Employment, which offers a range of free employment services to job-seekers.
• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC), which helps match immigrants with mentors and potential internship opportunities, and also assists companies in hiring and managing a diverse pool of employees. (You can read more about TRIEC and its programs in this Yonge Street Media feature on “Jumping the diversity hurdles.”)

For more information about upcoming immigration changes that may affect potential Canadian entrepreneurs, check out our recent post on Canada’s plans for a new “Startup Visa” for immigrant entrepreneurs.

Waterloo, Ontario photo © Carolyn B. Heller