Financing your bootcamp in Canada: Spotlight on Windmill Microlending

At Le Wagon Montréal, we know that investing in a bootcamp is a big step. For many students, especially those new to Canada, financing can feel like a barrier.
Summary

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At Le Wagon Montréal, we know that investing in a bootcamp is a big step. For many students, especially those new to Canada, financing can feel like a barrier. That’s why we’re launching a series of articles to introduce you to financing partners who can help make your career goals a reality.

First up: Windmill Microlending, a national charity dedicated to helping skilled immigrants and refugees succeed in Canada.

Who can apply?

Windmill loans are designed specifically for newcomers. To be eligible, you must:

  • Be an immigrant or refugee with permanent status in Canada.
  • Have completed post-secondary education outside of Canada, or at least one year of post-secondary work experience before arriving.
  • Have a Career Success Plan that requires funding — such as enrolling in a bootcamp.

What about income or credit requirements?

Many newcomers worry about Canadian credit history. Windmill accepts applicants who don’t yet have one. They’ll review your credit score, but employment is not required to apply. 

The main restriction: you must not have an undischarged bankruptcy or a consumer proposal active for less than six months.

Why Windmill stands out

Unlike traditional lenders, Windmill focuses on helping newcomers move from survival jobs to meaningful careers. In addition to loans, they provide:

  • Coaching to support career and financial planning
  • Mentorship programs to help you navigate the Canadian job market
  • Affordable, fixed-rate loans with flexible repayment terms

Details about the loans

Windmill loans are repaid over 2–5 years, depending on your plan.

  • While you’re studying: you pay only the interest (up to two years).
  • Once you finish: you pay both principal and interest over 2–3 years.

The interest rate is fixed for the entire loan term — no surprises if prime rates increase. And if you want to repay early, there’s no penalty.

Windmill keeps rates as low as possible. There are no administrative fees, and the interest charged goes directly toward sustaining their loan fund for future clients.

Financial health tips from Windmill

Windmill also offers financial literacy training to ensure clients understand the basic concepts of the Canadian financial system and are able to make informed decisions when it comes to debt and credit. 

On debt:
Credit should not be seen as a burden but a tool. Used wisely, it can help you reach career goals faster.

On budgeting:
Monthly budgeting is essential, especially for newcomers. Using financial tools and professional advice can make repayments more manageable.

On building credit:

  • Monitor your credit score through Equifax or TransUnion.
  • Set up an emergency fund.
  • Compare financial products before choosing.
  • Learn from reliable financial literacy resources such as Gouvernment du Canada  or Prospérité Canada

Windmill to help relaunch your career in Canada

For internationally trained individuals ready to relaunch their career in Canada, Windmill Microlending is a strong option to consider.

Are you curious about whether you might be eligible for a Windmill loan ? You can check your eligibility here

If you’d like to know more about financing options for our bootcamps, our learning advisors are available to answer your questions. You can also book a quick call with us to explore what option might work best for you.

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