The two (immigration / starting a business) don't have much to do with each other. Immigration is fairly easy if you have a technical education & are fluent in either english or french, but be prepared to wait. See http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/apply-who.asp and take the self assessment at the bottom to see if you have enough points. (that's pretty much all they use to decide)

Immigration as an investor is a little different. This may apply to you, though Canada's definition of an entrepreneur is someone who will bring in C$300K into the country. You then have to operate a business that employs people. See http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/business/entrepreneur... for more info.

If you qualify on points, there's not much point in tying up your money, but this might get you quicker processing.

When we got our permanent resident status 4 yrs ago, the process took almost 3 years. ymmv.

Starting a business is similar to the US, though overall paperwork seems to be lower. There aren't as many options in corporate structure as in the US - but a sole proprietership or partnership can be set up in a couple days. Labor laws are definitely stronger here (in the employee's benefit). Health care is obviously cheaper. Definitely talk to a lawyer first.

Good luck.