Thriving in a new land: Winning attitudes of immigrant entrepreneurs

Earlier this July, I had the privilege of co-hosting a regional workshop with my colleagues at Futurpreneur, organized as part of the My Canadian Startup initiative, supported by the TD Ready Challenge. This initiative aims to help newcomer entrepreneurs better understand and navigate Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

One of the day’s highlights was an inspiring panel discussion with Princess Irabor, representing Thrive in Canada, Tavleen Deol (Oxygen Yoga & Fitness), and Yuka Katahira (Yuka’s Japanese Bakery).

• Thrive in Canada is dedicated to helping immigrant entrepreneurs reach their full potential in North America.
• Tavleen and Yuka, two newcomer entrepreneurs to Canada, successfully launched their businesses thanks to Futurpreneur’s financial support and mentorship.

Listening to their stories, one realization stood out: succeeding as a newcomer is not just about having a great business idea, it’s about adopting the right mindset and attitude.

So, what are the key principles they shared? Here are three powerful lessons that can transform not only your entrepreneurial journey but also your integration into a new country.

1. Build your network: The key to your success

The panellists emphasized that in a country like Canada, relationships and connections can open doors much faster than a résumé ever could.

Princess Irabor highlighted the importance of building strong ties with local communities and organizations. Tavleen spoke about the impact of her Futurpreneur mentor, and Yuka shared how her local network was instrumental in growing Yuka’s Japanese Bakery.

The message is universal: no one succeeds alone. Your network is your gateway to opportunities, knowledge and trust, no matter where you live.

2. Show up, even when you don’t feel ready

This is a piece of advice I strongly relate to. As a professional immigrant, I vividly remember my early days attending networking events. I often felt I didn’t belong, sometimes even invisible. But I quickly realized that just showing up, introducing myself, engaging in conversations and making connections was a powerful first step.

In any entrepreneurial ecosystem, connection is more than a tool, it’s a catalyst for success. It allows you to exchange ideas, learn, refine your vision and above all, identify the right people to grow with.

I like to illustrate this with the 1-10-100 rule. Not the one often referenced in project or quality management, but a version I first learned over 20 years ago during my studies at the Institut de Gestion de Rennes with Professor Gérard Cliquet:

• 1: the entrepreneur, driven by strong motivation
• 10: the first 10 collaborators or partners
• 100: the first 100 customers

These two circles, partners and customers, are the real engines of entrepreneurial growth. And it is through building authentic connections that these essential foundations come to life.

3. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable

One of the workshop’s most memorable moments was the informal pitch session we introduced. There was almost nothing to win, just a small symbolic prize. The goal wasn’t competition, but rather to give newcomer entrepreneurs a chance to share their ideas with the audience and create genuine connections.

The discomfort was real: fear of speaking “imperfect” English, struggling to find the right words, or feeling judged. Yet, each participant took the leap. This wasn’t a public speaking contest but a moment of authenticity, honest dialogue and intentional connection.

This perfectly captured what Princess, Tavleen and Yuka emphasized: success is built in moments where you embrace vulnerability and discomfort. Growth happens when you dare to step forward.

A message that resonates beyond Canada

As a professional immigrant myself, I truly resonate with this advice. These lessons are not just for entrepreneurs, they are powerful keys for anyone trying to build a life in a new country, culture or environment.

Building relationships, showing up and embracing discomfort are universal strategies for success. Wherever you are, they can transform your journey.

An organization committed to leaving no young entrepreneur behind

Supporting entrepreneurs has always been my passion. I am honoured to be part of Futurpreneur, an organization with strong, inclusive values that is committed to ensuring no one is left behind.

If you’re a newcomer entrepreneur ready to take the next step, learn more about Futurpreneur’s My Canadian Startup initiative.

Serge-Richard Petit Frère is Futurpreneur’s Bilingual Director, Entrepreneurship Programs located in Montreal. He has forged his career with a deep dedication to business mentoring and project development, driven by his passion for entrepreneurship. His academic journey, notably his specialization in small and medium-sized enterprise management, and his master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Project Development from the University of Rennes I in France, have been fundamental pillars in his professional journey.

Serge-Richard recognizes the importance of his experience as a former executive in financial institutions supporting businesses, along with his entrepreneurial background in Haiti. These experiences have deepened his comprehension of business challenges and growth opportunities.