Canadian Entrepreneurs' Incentive: Key considerations for tech startups

The Canadian government continues to support innovation and entrepreneurship through the introduction of the Canadian Entrepreneurs' Incentive (CEI), announced in Budget 2024 and further clarified in the August 12 draft proposals. This new incentive offers a significant reduction in taxable capital gains for entrepreneurs, particularly those in the tech industry, supporting investment in new ventures or a smoother retirement, while promoting broader economic growth in Canada. For tech entrepreneurs navigating the complex path of scaling up and eventually selling their businesses, understanding the benefits of this incentive is crucial.

To help entrepreneurs in Canada, especially those in sectors like technology and manufacturing, the Canadian Entrepreneurs' Incentive introduces a reduced inclusion rate of 33.3% on a lifetime maximum of $2 million on eligible capital gains when selling a business. This is a key development for start-up entrepreneurs who may have previously faced higher tax rates on their business sales, limiting their capacity to invest in future ventures.

Combined with the recently increased Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE) of $1.25 million, eligible entrepreneurs could benefit from tax relief on business shares worth up to $6.25 million. This strategic combination of tax measures provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to reduce their taxable income and retain more capital when they choose to sell.

Reduced tax burden: Under the CEI, entrepreneurs would pay tax on 33.3% of their capital gains, compared to an inclusion of 50% for capital gains $250,000 or less, and 66.67% on capital gains greater than $250,000. This allows for a larger portion of the proceeds from a business sale to stay in the entrepreneur’s hands.

Flexibility for founders: The August 12 proposals brought about more flexibility for business owners. For example:

• The founder requirement was eliminated and now requires ownership for a minimum of 24 continuous months.
• The minimum ownership requirement was reduced from 10% votes and value of all shares to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares with full voting rights.
• The ownership engagement periods were reduced from 5 years to any combined 3-year period, making it easier for a broader group of entrepreneurs to qualify.

Expanded eligibility: The August 12 proposals introduced the concept of Qualifying Canadian Entrepreneur Incentive Property (QCEIP), which extends beyond the tech sector to include qualified small business shares, farming, and fishing property, ensuring that entrepreneurs from different industries can benefit from this incentive.

• Entrepreneurs need to examine whether their business is considered an “excluded business” under the CEI.  The CEI excludes professional corporations (e.g., lawyers, dentists, physicians, etc.), a corporation primarily based on employee reputation or skills, and certain sectors like consulting, financial, insurance, real estate, food and accommodation, cultural, recreation, or entertainment.

As beneficial as the CEI is, it’s essential for entrepreneurs to fully understand the eligibility requirements and strategically plan for the sale of their business.

Ownership and engagement: Entrepreneurs must own at least 5% of the company’s voting shares for a minimum of 24 continuous months. Additionally, they must have been engaged in the business for at least three years—a significant change from the previous requirement of five years. Entrepreneurs should assess their business ownership structure and engagement history well before planning a sale to ensure compliance.

Eligible capital gains: Entrepreneurs should note that the reduced inclusion rate of one-third of eligible capital gains is limited to a lifetime maximum of $2 million. This incentivizes entrepreneurs to consider long-term planning, ensuring that they can take advantage and align the available CEI for their business exit strategy.

Phase-in period: The lifetime maximum of $2 million in eligible capital gains under the CEI will phase in faster, with annual increases of $400,000 over five years, compared to the proposed 10 years. For instance, if a sale occurs in Year 1 or Year 2, the capital gains eligible for the CEI would be $400,000 or $800,000, respectively. Entrepreneurs planning an exit may consider a phased approach to selling shares, allowing them to benefit from the CEI over multiple years as the inclusion limit increases.

¹This assumes capital gain rates pre-June 24, 2024

This results in a significant increase of $334,000 in the portion of the gain that David is able to retain for future capital investment or personal use.

Looking forward

The Canadian Entrepreneurs' Incentive offers substantial tax savings for tech entrepreneurs planning to sell their businesses, allowing them to reduce their tax burden and keep more of their capital gains. By meeting the eligibility criteria and planning strategically, entrepreneurs can maximize their tax benefits, invest in new ventures, or secure their financial future.

However, it’s crucial to understand and adhere to the specific rules and requirements to fully leverage this incentive. Proper planning and documentation are essential to ensure full utilization of the CEI and to avoid missing out on significant tax savings.