With Q1 upon us, new beginnings are on the horizon as international entrepreneurs have an excellent opportunity to think strategically about the next 365 days of their business journey.
Every founder and startup business is unique, which is why generic rules of thumb and standard milestones can only take you so far. Setting specific, intentional goals tailored to your business creates clear, actionable steps and makes success feel within reach.
Goals don’t need to be numerous; they need to be achievable. Focusing on a small number of realistic priorities makes progress feel manageable and empowers entrepreneurs to take the driver’s seat on the road to success
As we step into 2026, here are some New Year’s resolutions that international startup founders can consider:
1. Prove and Track Business Traction
We hear time and time again about the importance of proving business viability, so why not make traction measurement a strategic priority? Whether your goal is acquiring Canadian customers, launching pilot programs or achieving a target, like 500 users by year’s end, clearly define what growth looks like for your business.
Looking into traction data is also a great way to reorient your strategy. Commit to monthly reporting to monitor performance, identify trends and adjust your approach as needed. Focus on the metrics that best represent traction for your company, such as customer growth, revenue, usage, and engagement over time.
Adopting an evidence-based approach enables more informed decision-making and provides a clear foundation for long-term growth.
2. Staying Compliant and Informed
The international business landscape is constantly evolving. Make it a priority to stay informed about regulatory changes, approvals and compliance requirements so you can remain compliant while focusing on growth.
Check in with your network, monitor public announcements, stay current on policy updates, and connect with mentors or incubator staff. Compliance is a strategic advantage that safeguards your business and demonstrates utmost professionalism, building a positive reputation within the Canadian market.
3. Strengthen Your Canadian Connection
For businesses scaling in Canada while headquartered elsewhere, staying locally connected can feel challenging. In 2026, make it a resolution to strengthen and deepen your Canadian presence by hiring local talent, engaging with industry associations, or attending community and sector events.
A strong network provides market insights, keeps you informed on industry trends and opens doors to relationships that may prove pivotal to your company’s future. Strategic connections are just as valuable as strategic knowledge, and Canada is an excellent place to build both.
4. Deepen Work With Your Designated Organization
As an international incubator, we are committed to nurturing strong, long-term relationships with the entrepreneurs we support. In 2026, dedicate your time to deepening your engagement with your mentor, liaison or RGI team member.
Schedule regular check-ins, align on roadmaps, discuss milestones and review progress together. Open communication creates alignment, strengthens trust, and fosters shared learning, all of which build a meaningful connection that supports long-term success.
Starting Right Means Feeling Capable
Every goal you set requires action to achieve it. As you move into the new year, the Roseview Global team is here to support your strategic growth and help ensure 2026 is a year defined by connection, insight, progress and success.
To all of our founders that we have had the privilege of working with, thank you for another year of learning, growth and innovation. We look forward to beginning a new chapter alongside you and supporting you every step of the way.
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