Entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic inclusion
Project Lead(s)
Team Members
Sub-theme
Interrogating immigrant un(der)employment: Causes, consequences and solutions
Despite the danger of failure, researchers have noted that newcomers choose entrepreneurship more frequently than working-age Canadians and that they are pulled as well as pushed to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Objective
While research has suggested immigrant entrepreneurs often face barriers in terms of navigating the Canadian innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, there are increasing numbers of programs ostensibly designed to support them.
By better understanding the diversity among immigrant entrepreneurs and their experiences as well as recognizing entrepreneurship as a viable pathway to inclusion, policymakers can help to strengthen an already dynamic ecosystem capable of further contributing to Canada’s economic recovery.
Research question(s)
- What are the characteristics of immigrant entrepreneurs in Canada?
- Can we develop a framework to distinguish different motivations (push/pull) related to different sectors and characteristics?
- What barriers do immigrant entrepreneurs face in establishing businesses?
- What entrepreneurship support programs are currently available for immigrants and newcomers in Canada, what are their features and impacts?
- What are the implications for policy and practice in developing an inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem for entrepreneurs?
Methodology
This research will adopt a mixed-methods approach to design and deliver entrepreneurship training which is a pathway to self-employment among newcomers. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods will be used.
Status
Phase one of the project, focusing on mapping the state of immigrant entrepreneurship in Canada, is currently ongoing.
Expected completion date: September 2026
Key words
Canadian innovation and entrepreneurship; economic inclusion; entrepreneurship; immigrant entrepreneurs; migrant integration
