Immigration 2 | The Vertical

6 top startup accelerators for immigrant founders

- Immigration
- Strategy

Choosing the right accelerator can sometimes determine success or failure for international entrepreneurs who rarely have a strong support network. Which is right for you? Here are some diversity-focused accelerators that support immigrant founders.

“We regret to inform you: You don’t fit into the box.” Which U.S. visa is best for immigrant techpreneurs?

- Entrepreneurs
- Immigration

For years, lawmakers have discussed the Startup Visa Act. Unfortunately, such a policy is still non-existent, leaving international tech founders without a clear immigration path to follow. Here’s how to fit into the right immigration box and improve the likelihood of an approved application, according to Michael Catalotti, an immigration lawyer.

Is bootstrapping the most destructive American startup fantasy?

- Ideas
- Immigration
- Life

Stories of entrepreneurs, coming from humble beginnings and building their businesses from scratch, is an inspiration for many immigrant founders. However, not all of them are real, warns lifelong entrepreneur and mentor Michael Burtov. The ultimate American dream might be just a fantasy for those dreamers coming to the land of opportunity with no capital or connections.

Permissionless innovation: How to survive the Wild West of entrepreneurship

When it comes to new technology, America still has a “Wild West” culture, where the line isn’t always clear between pioneers and outlaws. Mike Burtov, a star entrepreneur and mentor who brought multiple startups from their initial idea to millions in revenue and funding, believes that “fortune favors the bold” who have a worldview with no limits. He recommends immigrant startup founders to embrace the concept of “permissionless innovation” if they want to succeed.

Untouchables in Varanasi/Luisen Rodrigo, Flickr

India’s “untouchable” Dalits find liberation in American entrepreneurship

Dalits, the lowest caste in the Hindu hierarchy, are victims of thousands of attacks in India each year. In the U.S., Dalit immigrants are escaping discrimination from fellow Indians by creating their own businesses.

Protesters outside the U.S. Embassy in London/Alisdare Hickson

Brands who supported immigrants in 2020 and beyond

Immigration has become a hot topic during the last few years of the Trump administration. Many brands stood up to support immigrants with campaigns advocating for social change. Here are just a few companies that took up the cause in these dark times.

Business immigration: What 2021 will bring for foreign entrepreneurs in the U.S.

- Immigration

The new administration could reverse some of Trump’s immigration regulations and executive orders, but it might take time to undo the damage, experts warn. What should foreign entrepreneurs in the U.S. expect?

How Sikhs are living the great Indian trucking dream in the U.S.

- Community
- Immigration

In the 1980s, a large number of Sikhs fled a violent insurgency in their home state of Punjab for the U.S. They began their American careers in the trucking and logistics business, where many had worked before in India.

New York federal judge blocks Trump’s “wealth test” for green cards

- Immigration

The "public charge” rule, which discouraged immigrants from seeking benefits, has been temporarily blocked. Until now, green card applicants, including immigrant entrepreneurs who temporarily used social services, such as Medicaid, could be disqualified.

Visas on hold: What’s next for international entrepreneurs?

- Entrepreneurs
- Immigration

In the midst of the pandemic, many foreign entrepreneurs have been experiencing visa application delays. The situation is improving, but the U.S. approach to immigration could become far more punitive.