BC Invites Entrepreneurs in December 16 PNP Draw

Key Takeaways from the December 16 Draw 

Base category 

• Minimum score: 115 

• Invitations issued: 17 

Regional category 

• Minimum score: 107 

• Invitations issued: Fewer than 5 

This draw was competitive but within reach, with Base scores dropping back to the mid-110s after being higher earlier in the fall. 

How This Draw Compares to Earlier Rounds 

The December 16 draw fits neatly into the pattern BCNP has followed throughout 2025 for the Entrepreneur stream. 

Earlier Entrepreneur Immigration draws this year included: 

• November 18: 19 Base invitations (minimum score 121), fewer than 5 Regional invitations

• October 2: 11 Base invitations (minimum score 123)

• August 19: 11 Base invitations (minimum score 124), fewer than 5 Regional invitations 

Across the year, two trends stand out: 

• Base invitations typically range between 9 and 20 per draw, with scores usually landing between 115 and the low-120s

• Regional invitations remain limited, usually fewer than five, as BC carefully manages intake into smaller communities 

The lower Base score in this draw may reflect slightly easing competition – or simply BC using its remaining 2025 space more strategically. 

What’s Going On Behind the Numbers? 

Base category remains the main pathway 

The Base stream continues to lead invitations because it targets entrepreneurs who can start or expand businesses in BC’s main economic regions. These applicants are expected to bring investment, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic growth. 

Regional invitations stay limited but important 

Even with fewer than five invitations, the Regional stream still plays a role. For smaller communities, one new business can have a noticeable impact, which is why BC likely keeps this pathway active but tightly controlled. 

Competitive, but not out of reach 

A minimum Base score of 115 sits on the more accessible end of this year’s range. It’s still competitive, but it leaves room for well-prepared candidates with strong business plans to stay in the running. 

What This Means for Candidates 

BC has confirmed it plans to use all of its 2025 nomination spaces by December 31. Draws like this suggest the province is using its remaining spots carefully, rather than issuing large numbers of invitations. 

For entrepreneur candidates, the takeaway is familiar: 

• Small, steady draws are likely to continue

• Strong business plans and realistic community impact matter more than ever

• The Base and Regional streams are for different goals, so choosing the right one is key. 

Looking ahead, BC has said it will release a full review of 2025 results and its priorities for 2026 in the new year. With higher national PNP targets expected in 2026, there may be more room for entrepreneur candidates, but for now, BC is staying selective. 

If you’re planning to apply or waiting in the pool, staying prepared is still the best move. Keep your profile up to date, review your business proposal, and make sure nothing expires quietly while you wait.