Immigrant Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Opportunities

In a world characterized by increasing globalization and demographic shifts, immigrant entrepreneurship has emerged as a vital driver of economic growth, innovation, and social cohesion. Immigrant entrepreneurs bring social and cultural capital through their unique skills, ideas, and perspectives, thereby driving economic and social development and a competitive edge.

This book provides an examination of the dimensions, challenges and opportunities in immigrant entrepreneurship in Canada and abroad. The chapters in this book provide valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of immigrant entrepreneurship and its contributions to economic development and social cohesion. By examining the challenges, opportunities, and innovative strategies employed by immigrant entrepreneurs, this book informs policy formulation, program development, and future research endeavours in the field of immigrant entrepreneurship. Understanding and supporting immigrant entrepreneurship is essential for fostering inclusive economic growth and prosperity.

Mohamed Elmi holds a PhD in Information Systems at University of Cape Town. He is the Executive Director of the Diversity Institute. His primary research interest revolves around the role that information communication technologies (ICTs) play in national and international trade and development.

Wendy Cukier is a professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Founder and Academic Director of the Diversity Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University, Academic Director of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) and Academic Research Director of the Future Skills Centre. She holds a PhD in Management Science (York University), an MBA (University of Toronto), an MA (University of Toronto), and honorary doctorates from Laval and Concordia universities.

Zohreh H. Chavoushi holds a PhD in Entrepreneurship from the University of Tehran and completed a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is currently a Senior Research Associate at the Diversity Institute, Toronto Metropolitan University.

Guang Ying Mo received her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Toronto. As the Director of Research Director at the Diversity Institute, Toronto Metropolitan University, Dr. Mo has led research projects on Employment and Social Development Canada-funded projects.