Welcoming America Toolkit Describes Tactics to Support Immigrant Entrepreneurs

Although much has been written on the value of immigrant entrepreneurship, relatively little research to date focuses on strategies for supporting these individuals. Welcoming America, a national nonprofit and non-partisan organization focused on immigrant inclusion, has addressed this gap by releasing a how-to-guide for those interested in supporting immigrant entrepreneurship in their cities. Produced with Global Detroit, an initiative focused on southeast Michigan’s international community, Seeds of Growth describes practical ways for regions across the nation to leverage opportunities associated with including immigrant entrepreneurs in local economic development strategies and programs.

Citing evidence of immigrant entrepreneurs fueling local economic growth, the report calls on civic leaders to connect immigrants with traditional economic development priorities as a way of identifying new opportunities. Overall, the report’s authors suggest four steps to supporting immigrant entrepreneurs: better understanding economic priorities and immigrant assets; inventorying and engaging existing programs and potential partners; talking with immigrant entrepreneurs; and, building a plan based on capacity and manpower.

The authors of the report suggest that knowing the local context in a community is critically important as a means to develop distinctive strategies and solutions. This includes an understanding of both qualitative and quantitative data about the contributions of immigrants to the local economy, as well as identifying where gaps may exist with potential partners and programs already in effect. Because immigrant entrepreneurs may experience a unique set of barriers, an inclusive and welcoming approach to business assistance programs should focus on partnering with trusted organizations and developing strong, culturally competent relationships, according to the report. At the same time, entrepreneurship-focused programming should also seek to address the needs of all local entrepreneurs, recognizing the fact that many entrepreneurs may face similar challenges.

Additionally, the report includes a poster with in-depth descriptions of tactics used to support immigrant entrepreneurs across a variety of areas, as well as examples of model programs. Topics relevant to the technology-based economic development community include entrepreneurship training, mentorship, navigating municipal codes, exports and FDI, and incorporating immigrant entrepreneurs in the tech economy, among others.

Interested in learning more about how regions can support immigrant entrepreneurs as a means of boosting their local economies? Featuring Adams Nager, Economic Policy Analyst with the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, and Steve Tobocman, Director of Global Detroit, this month’s Inspiring Thought webinar will highlight recent research on immigrant innovators and focus on programs to attract or retain high-skilled immigrants with an emphasis on the models currently used in Michigan. Join us to better understand this often overlooked component of the innovation ecosystem and discuss how an immigrant-centric program could benefit your region. Register today!