Build up a Scaleup is a new program receiving ideation stage companies. This program is not connected with the Startup Visa path. For more information about this program please visit https://latamstartups.org/programs/build-up-a-scaleup/
The first step is to have the letter of support and documents before starting the Phase III Acceleration. The letter of support is given to companies after they graduate from the Initial Phase of the Startup Visa Path and receive approval from our board of directors after an interview. The Acceleration phase starts with the legal paperwork. The first step is to have the letter of support and documents before starting sessions.
This is a three-phase program. Each phase has a cost:
Startup Visa Path: Initial Phase is for companies that are aiming to enter North America and grow in the region, seeking advice to grow global as well. Companies applying to this program are aiming to become a part of the Startup Visa Program. The cost per month is USD 2,500 (taxes are included). The cost of the program is per company and supports up to 5 co-founders of the same company.
Acceleration (Startup Visa) This is for companies approved by the board of directors of LatAm Startup. Companies have finalized successfully the 3 first months of the Startup Visa Path: Initial Phase. The cost of the program is USD 15,000 (taxes are included) and lasts for six months. The fee covers up to five co-founders from the same company.
We’re a not-for-profit organization and we don’t take equity over any startups. The fees that are required cover the costs of operating the different levels of the program.
As a not-for-profit, all income is redirected to cover expenses related to mentors, staff, office space, internet and other costs applicable to the program.
In some cases, we do. Depending on the stage of the company, we may require the solo-entrepreneur to commit to hiring local talent to grow the company in expectation.
You need to start your process. Our ideal case is to fill out IP in Canada. We understand this process may take months or years, depending on if you’re pursuing patents or copyrights. If you don’t have IP filled out, you will need to work in an IP strategy during our program if you get accepted.
Consider having enough budget for the first year of operations. This budget should include any costs related to incorporation, salaries for co-founders moving to Canada, any local talent you need to hire, and any other expense related that you believe will occur during the first year of operations.
Please consider that as a new company in the Canadian market, in your first year of operation is likely that you won’t generate revenue.
Our ideal cases are technology companies with intellectual property. They should also have revenue in their home countries.
No, we receive startups from many regions other than Latin America.
Yes. Technology applies to many fields, including agricultural technology, biotechnology, and many others. We don’t work with creative industries unless the solution has AI or VR components.
Some companies may not wish the co-founders to move to Canada but may want to establish a second headquarters in Canada as a point of entry to North America. For those cases, we recommend the Corporate Program.
We have frequent webinars and info sessions. You can also find videos on our Youtube channel or visit the evemts page on our website (https://latamstartups.org/events/). You can also receive information through our newsletter.
