A study in the International Journal of Management and Enterprise Development investigates the concept of refugee entrepreneurship aiming to better understand the needs of refugees looking to establish their businesses, particularly in the catering industry.
Jukka Ojasalo, Maria Ekström, and Joonas Koski of the Laurea University of Applied Sciences in Espoo, Finland, carried out an empirical study using qualitative theme interviews and focus groups. From the results, the team has developed a comprehensive model for capability development in the context of refugee entrepreneurship.
The work revealed three fundamental needs of refugees hoping to grow a business: empowerment, experiential learning, and networking. The proposed model could be used to guide refugees through the various stages of the process of growing a business and emphasizes hands-on facilitation and collaboration as key components for success.
The work challenges the common misconception that refugees are a burden on their host society and shows they can be great economic contributors. The team suggests that further exploration of the innovative capabilities of refugee entrepreneurs is now needed and proposes that a broader evaluation of entrepreneurship programs that considers measures beyond traditional economic success, such as quality of life and empowerment should be taken into account when determining success.
The researchers also recommend that refugee entrepreneurship should be looked at in the context of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals to see what contribution refugee entrepreneurship might have with regard to these objectives. Moreover, there is a need to look at how third- and fourth-sector organizations might foster innovation and growth in service industries and at the same time support refugee entrepreneurship.
Refugee inclusion is perceived as a significant problem by some across society. The co-creation approach outlined in this research offers a starting point for addressing the issues as well as giving policymakers some guidance. At a time when conflict and upheaval are leading to increasing numbers of people displaced from their homes, nations will need to find ways to help these people when they arrive.
Obviously, not every refugee has entrepreneurial potential but for those that do a rich human resource might be tapped by host nations willing to invest in those displaced people. By recognizing the untapped potential of refugees and addressing their unique needs and what they can offer, society can create a more inclusive and economically vibrant environment for all.
Ojasalo, J., Ekström, M. and Koski, J. (2023) ‘Refugee entrepreneurship development: a case study of capability training program in catering services‘, Int. J. Management and Enterprise Development, Vol. 22, No. 4, pp.366-390.