The Determinants of Sustainable Entrepreneurship of Immigrants in Lapland: An Analysis of Theoretical Factors

This research seeks new ways in which the socio-cultural capital and human capital of immigrants can be used as a resource in business life in Lapland – a sparsely populated area and new immigrant-receiving region. Research Design & Methods: An analysis is put forward that explores enablers that might sustain entrepreneurial existence and development and increase long-term prospects for immigrant-owned firms. Findings: In the last three years, many immigrant entrepreneurs in the region have had to close their businesses a short time after establishing them. It is harder for immigrants to run businesses and to become successful in Lapland than elsewhere. Triple disadvantage theory provides explanation why established entrepreneurs were pressed to close their business. Disadvantages create barrier to developing their full entrepreneurial potential as a whole. Implications & Recommendations: Immigrant entrepreneurship in Finland does not fall within the responsibility of any single authority or any single sector. All the official and organizational actors need to change their attitudes and encourage positive interaction. It is necessary to invest in knowledge building, a process that will enable immigrants to play a fruitful role in the social, political and economic development. Contribution & Value Added: The article contributes to the studies on immigrant entrepreneurship and immigrant socio-economic integration by focusing on necessity-driven entrepreneurs in a sparsely populated region-Lapland in Northern Finland.

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