Media representations of migrants have often emphasized a status of emergency of migratory movements. Yet, migrants’ contributions to the local economy and community are often key, despite the challenges migrants face.

Dr Cinzia Priola, Senior Lecturer at Open University, has recently discussed this in a blog post on “Diversity, migrant entrepreneurship and socio-economic inclusion”:

“The entrepreneurial milieu is harsh and competitive and relies on economic, social and cultural capitals that generally migrant entrepreneurs lack for obvious reasons. In spite of these inequalities among migrant and native entrepreneurs in accessing funds and venture capitalists, and systematic formal and informal networks of support, migrant entrepreneurs often demonstrate the determination and tenacity to survive and prosper. “

In sum, migrants are mostly successful in providing jobs and services to the local community and foster cohesion in the communities in which they operate.

What can governments and societies do to support this important group of entrepreneurs? Key suggestions from Dr Priola for policy makers include:

• Increase awareness of the positive economic and social role that migrant entrepreneurs play in the country where they operate
• Be proactive in developing strategies for growth and social inclusion
• Foster the development of inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems
• Focus on the integration of categories of diversity (including race, gender, class, nationality, levels of ability, age and so forth) in inclusive strategy for entrepreneurial growth.