The COVID-19 pandemic hit the global economy hard, but Canada has remained supportive of both its citizens and immigrants. Known for its low crime rate, Canada offers numerous advantages, including opportunities for starting a business. For instance, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an $82 billion Economic Response Plan during the pandemic, with $27 billion earmarked for businesses.
In Canada, 99.8% of businesses are small or medium-sized, employing over 8.4 million people. Small businesses contribute 38.4% to the country’s GDP. If you’re thinking about starting a business, especially in Toronto, options abound—from agriculture to SEO, food services, and wholesale and retail. Notably, starting an SEO firm in Toronto can be a great opportunity for immigrants, requiring minimal investment.
The agriculture and agri-food sector is one of Canada’s largest and most lucrative industries, contributing $49 billion to the GDP. This sector supports numerous other jobs, creating high demand. It’s easy to find necessary resources like harvesters, qualified workers, and business loans, and side businesses such as meat processing or farming tools can complement the main agricultural business. Ideal provinces for agriculture include Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
Food services and accommodation is another thriving sector. There’s significant demand due to the hospitality and tourism industry. You can readily find workers, and with Canada’s diverse population, ventures like vegan meal delivery have growth potential. The best locations for these businesses include British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Alberta.
Since COVID-19, wholesale and retail businesses—such as gas stations, motor vehicle dealerships, and general merchandise stores—have seen substantial growth. The need for medical supplies has also surged, driven by the pandemic. Prospective business owners can look to Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan for opportunities.
SEO is a low-investment business option with significant profit potential. With everyone relying on Google, there’s an opportunity to leverage blog traffic. Toronto hosts numerous companies, making it easy to find skilled workers. While you can start an SEO business anywhere in Canada, proximity to a city can offer greater opportunities.
The construction industry is favored by many immigrants due to its stability and potential for investment returns. As nationwide development projects increase, so does the demand for construction companies, particularly in the commercial sector. This demand is especially high in Ontario, where labor and management can be easily sourced.
In conclusion, Canada presents an ideal environment for immigrants looking to start a business, offering countless opportunities and appealing weather. If you’re apprehensive about adjusting to Canada’s colder climate, there are resources available to help with the transition.
