Newcomers are playing a significant role in Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape, accounting for 32% of all business owners with paid staff, and franchising is emerging as a key route to business ownership.
As Canada continues to welcome newcomers from around the world, a growing number are choosing entrepreneurship, not just as a career path, but as a way to build long-term financial security and contribute to their communities. Many are turning to franchising as a practical and proven route to business ownership, offering support, training, and established systems that can help reduce the challenges of starting a business in a new country.
The data reflects the scale of the trend. One in four new businesses in Canada is started by an immigrant. There are more than 800,000 self-employed newcomers across Canada. Over 250,000 newcomer entrepreneurs employ staff, creating jobs and supporting local economies. Newcomer entrepreneurs are contributing across a wide range of industries, including restaurants, grocery stores, truck transportation, and computer systems design.
Why more newcomers are choosing franchising
A proven business model reduces many risks of starting from scratch. Training, operational support, marketing expertise and mentorship are built into franchise systems, giving franchisees access to established brands and customer recognition. Opportunities exist in more than 60 industries, matching skills and investment goals. A network of franchisors and fellow franchisees offers guidance and shared best practices. Franchising also creates wealth, jobs and reinvests in local communities.
For many newcomers, franchising provides more than a business opportunity. It offers a pathway to economic participation, community connection and long-term success in Canada.
As the national voice of franchising in Canada, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) supports thousands of franchise businesses through advocacy, education, networking and resources. The association works to connect prospective franchisees with the information they need to make informed investment decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Newcomers are vital to Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape, representing 32% of business owners with paid staff.
- Franchising is increasingly popular among newcomers for its support, training, and established systems.
- One in four new businesses in Canada is started by an immigrant, contributing to job creation and local economies.
- Franchising reduces risks and offers numerous opportunities across more than 60 industries, fostering economic participation.
- The Canadian Franchise Association aids franchisees with advocacy, education, and resources to make informed decisions.
