Entrepreneurship in Migrant Communities

Abstract

In the contemporary global landscape, immigration plays a pivotal role in fostering substantial economic and social transformations, particularly evident through the diverse spectrum of migrant entrepreneurship, encompassing ethnic, diaspora, migrant, refugee, and minority enterprises. These endeavors harness the rich array of social, economic, and human assets that migrants bring to their adopted communities. Central to this phenomenon is the concept of mixed embeddedness, which underscores the intricate interplay between migrant entrepreneurs and their social and economic milieus. Often, these entrepreneurs rely on ethnic networks and broader societal connections to establish and expand their businesses. Ethnic enclaves serve as nurturing environments wherein migrants can draw upon their cultural affinities and social networks to access resources and seize opportunities. Moreover, the process of migrant assimilation proves multifaceted, as certain individuals seamlessly blend into their new societies, while others uphold connections to their cultural roots. Notably, the surge in female migrant entrepreneurship highlights their indispensable contributions to both communities and economies, navigating distinctive obstacles with unwavering resolve. From a wider standpoint, migrant entrepreneurship serves as a catalyst for global economic enhancement, harnessing social, economic, and human resources to spur innovation, generate employment opportunities, and promote social unity.