Anyone who goes for a stroll anywhere between Union and Main Streets in Flushing will see and know the impact of immigrant entrepreneurship. Flooding the main sea ports of the United States for economic advantage, disproportionate numbers of immigrants take to the labor market, most demanding low-skilled, low-pay jobs, whilst others take serious risks and start their own businesses. In recent years, as the Eastern seaboard sees a considerable influx of Southeast Asian and Latin American immigrants, the numbers of businesses run by these immigrant individuals has skyrocketed, especially in the neighborhoods of Flushing and Corona in Queens.

Jonathan Bowles discusses the statistical impact of immigrant entrepreneurship, noting their extensive integration in “native” society, with immigrant-owned businesses outdoing their native competitors. Their economic flexibility is noted as well, as they don not solely serve members of the immigrant community, but expand to include (and perhaps to integrate with) the native society/culture as well.

Immanuel Ness’ article paints a somewhat more pessimistic view, arguing for the necessity of unions for immigrant businesses (Bowles mentions the necessity for government assistance for immigrant businesses as well). Starting a business, especially as an immigrant to a new country, is a considerable risk. However, as is the case with business/entrepreneurship, success is a rarity and failure is the norm. There is no guarantee that all immigrant-owned businesses will succeed as much as their native-owned counterparts, but the impact of immigrant businesses/labor is still significant, especially here in Queens.