Economics Project Abstract
THE ESTABLISHMENT AND SUCCESS OF CHINESE AND MEXICAN IMMIGRANT ENTREPRENEURS
Presenter:
Alicia Chan, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; achan@imsa.edu
Mentor:
Clarisol Avila, Office of United States Senator Richard J. Durbin, 230 South Dearborn, Suite 3892, Chicago, IL 60604;
Abstract:
As two of the fastest growing immigrant groups in the nation, Chinese and Mexican immigrants have come to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream. Chicago is a major destination of these two immigrant groups, and has strong immigrant communities such as Chinatown and Little Village. These immigrants often find success in many sectors, though they seem to be most successful in establishing small businesses and in becoming immigrant enterpreneurs. This research addresses the types of business that these immigrant groups find and establish, their respective rates of success, cultural states of mind that drive them to establish small business, and immigration trends that may account for the rise and success of immigrant businesses. Immigrant small businesses help an ethnic community succeed economically, provide support and create niche markets for immigrants and others, provide close social and business relationships, and also allow for an efficient division of labor. The ultimate goal of this research is to suggest legislation that can help such immigrant businesses to succeed and further enhance their positive effects on their communities.