Why Immigration Policies Matter for U.S. Startup Ecosystem

Venture Capitol

Current immigration policies in the U.S. are making it almost impossible for foreign entrepreneurs to come to the U.S., start new companies, and create American jobs. In this episode, we explore how immigration affects the entrepreneurial ecosystem and why a startup visa is critical for global competition.

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren answers the big question: why can’t we establish an immigration avenue for entrepreneurs from around the world? She shares where immigration legislation currently stands, including the Let Immigrants Kickstart Employment (LIKE) Act, and what obstacles this legislation faces.

NVCA’s General Counsel Jeff Farrah discusses the role of immigration in entrepreneurship, how immigration reform has changed over the years, and how NVCA is working to get startup visa legislation passed.

Lastly, founder and CEO of Make, Nishat Rustagi shares his story. Nishat was an international student who came to the U.S. to study. While here, he started a successful and valuable company, but was forced to leave in 2021 as there was no startup visa. Nishat shares why America is so desirable for entrepreneurs, and how difficult it is to run his America made company from abroad.

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