On November 30, 2023, Empowered Startups, a prominent Canada-based startup incubator and foundry, hosted a significant consulting seminar in Ho Chi Minh City, attracting over 100 startups and industry experts. The event, titled “Startup Expansion – Canada Startup Visa & USA EB2 NIW Startup R&D Programmes,” focused on the myriad opportunities available for startups looking to expand into North America.
The seminar provided a platform for participants to gain valuable insights from a diverse panel of seasoned professionals specializing in immigration law, business consulting, and government policy. Attendees were not only informed about the intricacies of the Canada Startup Visa and the USA EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) Startup R&D programmes but also engaged in meaningful networking that fostered collaboration between Vietnamese entrepreneurs and North American stakeholders.
The expert panel featured notable figures including Paul Girodo, co-founder of Empowered Startups; Chris Lennon, president and chief advisor; and Jasmin Wahhab, senior trade commissioner and consulate general of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City. Representatives from the EB-2 NIW Startup R&D programme and the Canada Startup Visa programme also contributed their expertise, enriching the discussions and providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the pathways available for international expansion.
One of the highlights of the seminar was the opportunity for businesses interested in entering the US or Canadian markets to engage directly with Empowered Startups representatives, government officials, and startup consulting organizations. This interaction allowed participants to address specific questions regarding investment policies and startup support in these lucrative markets. Additionally, one-on-one consultations with Empowered Startups experts offered tailored roadmaps, equipping attendees with the knowledge needed to navigate their expansion journeys effectively.
Paul Girodo expressed optimism about the future, particularly for 2024 and 2025. He noted the growing interest among Vietnamese businesses in international expansion, driven by the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and the United States, as well as the strong ties between Vietnam and Canada. Girodo emphasized his commitment to collaborating with the Vietnamese business community to promote innovative startups and foster a sustainable ecosystem that bridges Vietnam with global markets.
Shawn Olson, vice president of business development at Empowered Startups, highlighted the advantages of the EB-2 National Interest Waiver R&D programme, noting its higher approval rates and shorter processing times. This aspect underscores the United States’ commitment to enabling startups to contribute to economic development. Olson pointed out that many Vietnamese entrepreneurs are increasingly interested in this opportunity, reflecting a broader trend within the Vietnamese business community towards exploring flexible and long-term investment options in international markets.
The seminar also served as an open forum for Vietnamese entrepreneurs to share their experiences in establishing businesses overseas. This exchange of ideas and experiences not only enriched the discussions but also fostered a sense of community among participants, encouraging collaboration and support among startups.
Empowered Startups, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with additional offices in the US and Portugal, is dedicated to transnational innovation and entrepreneurship. The incubator offers training and advisory services designed to help entrepreneurs successfully launch innovative projects in diverse markets, ultimately contributing to sustainable local economic development.
The event in Ho Chi Minh City exemplifies the growing interest and potential for Vietnamese startups to expand into North America, leveraging the supportive frameworks provided by programs like the Canada Startup Visa and the USA EB-2 NIW. As the global startup ecosystem continues to evolve, initiatives like this seminar play a crucial role in bridging gaps and fostering international collaboration, paving the way for innovative solutions and sustainable growth in the entrepreneurial landscape.
