New Jersey is known for its large immigrant population, but what is frequently overlooked is the outsized role played by immigrant entrepreneurs in the state and national economy.
According to a report by New American Economy, 33 percent of all immigrants in New Jersey are entrepreneurs, generating $3.8 billion in business income and creating work for both fellow immigrants and native-born Americans.
In New Jersey, the percentage of immigrant-founded Fortune 500 firms is 55 percent, higher than the national average of 45 percent. These firms employ more than 1 million workers in the state.
In recognition of the vital role played by immigrants in the entrepreneurial space, the NJ Business Immigration Coalition is conducting its ninth annual immigrant entrepreneur of the year competition this summer. Awards are conferred in six categories: growth, advocacy, innovation, nonprofit entrepreneurship, rising star, and entrepreneur of the year.
For detailed information about each category or to make a nomination visit https://njbusinessimmigration.org/award-categories. Immigrants may also nominate themselves. Nominations must be submitted no later than August 15, 2021.
