Migrant entrepreneurs as actors of structural change. A case study in Enschede

Abstract

This study explored the following question: How do firm activities of non-Western migrant entrepreneurs of the second generation in Enschede influence or contribute t processes of urban innovation? To come to the results, first the aspects of mixed embeddedness and urban opportunity structures which contribute to entrepreneurship and firm activities of the second generation of non-Western migrant entrepreneurs were collected. Especially import proved the aspect of service innovations. Many second generation migrant entrepreneurs revealed they valued the quality of their services, and the will to help their customers to any length possible. Another interesting innovational aspect is the sharing of unique products with the region. Several entrepreneurs offered products otherwise unavailable in the region. From food, to vacations and from specialized physical therapist methods to customized webpages. Social innovations were revealed as well. Next to organisations aiming for a higher social welfare in the area as a business goal, the several activities entrepreneurs support or organise, lead to interesting innovational aspects for the city. Migrant entrepreneurs actively contribute to mentoring a new generation, by recruiting interns and helping young unemployed people starting their careers as well. Keywords: Urban innovations, social embeddedness, urban opportunity structures, migrant entrepreneurs