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Entrepreneurs because they are Immigrants or Immigrants because they are Entrepreneurs?

Author

Listed:
  • Prescott C. Ensign

    (Prescott C. Ensign is Associate Professor, Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, Canada)

  • Nicholas P. Robinson

    (Nicholas P. Robinson is with the Faculty of Law, McGill University, Montreal, Canada)

Abstract

Conventional wisdom suggests that immigrants are forced into selfemployment. Although there is veracity in this assertion, it is equally probable that there is a certain level of entrepreneurial drive and spirit exhibited when an individual departs from his or her homeland. This article provides a much-needed and critical second look at the realm of ethnic entrepreneurship and in particular, the two-way relationship between the immigrant entrepreneur and the established business community. Isomorphism is seen to ebb and flow among newcomers and existing institutions. Mimetic behaviour as well as the introduction of innovations is seen to occur on both sides of a bilateral exchange.

Suggested Citation

  • Prescott C. Ensign & Nicholas P. Robinson, 2011. "Entrepreneurs because they are Immigrants or Immigrants because they are Entrepreneurs?," Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, vol. 20(1), pages 33-53, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jouent:v:20:y:2011:i:1:p:33-53
    DOI: 10.1177/097135571002000102
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    References listed on IDEAS

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