Type:
North York Community House (NYCH) has released a new report titled DIY: Immigrant Entrepreneurs are Doing it for Themselves. Results of this study show that more immigrants to Toronto are starting their own small businesses for many reasons, including as a response to an unfavourable job market, to supplement a low-income, and to work flexibly according to their own schedule. Immigrant entrepreneurs are a highly diverse group with a wide range of skills and experience, and those who provide services in this area must be able to recognize and support their individual needs.
The majority of immigrant entrepreneurs interviewed indicated that there is a need for support in starting a business, from developing business skills to securing resources. However, the findings reveal that support from family and mentors is often able to make up for a lack of business experience and assets. Strong networks are crucial, and service providers must be aware that they can play an important role in facilitating these opportunities in order to maximize immigrant entrepreneurs' chances for success.
Funded by the Metcalf Foundation, this report is the result of research conducted in partnership with Public Interest on how to support the entrepreneurial activity of immigrants living in the City of Toronto. The findings are based on a literature review and interviews conducted with 100 immigrants who own small businesses in Toronto; and an advisory roundtable of service providers, who support immigrant entrepreneurs, was also established by NYCH to provide input to the project.
North York Community House has been serving the residents of northwest Toronto for over 22 years. NYCH is committed to working with people and in neighbourhoods by: assisting newcomers to settle and integrate, supporting positive development of families, strengthening neighbourhoods, promoting healthy living and food security, building skills and leadership and supporting community entrepreneurship.