Starting a new business from scratch requires the Canadian investor to spend all the money necessary to get the business to the point of being either operational – or close to operational. If the business is not at this stage at the time of application, the U.S. consulate will likely deny the E-2 application.
For example, if a Canadian citizen wants to start a brand new hair salon, she will have to first spend money securing a commercial lease, paying rent, buying equipment, and hiring staff, before she can apply for the E-2 visa. Just securing the location, or just buying equipment alone will not be enough – even if the amount spent is substantial.
