Many émigrés to West Michigan have launched successful businesses, and their contributions by way of new jobs created and increased tax rolls could be important factors in pulling Michigan out of its economic doldrums.
According to excerpts from the story:
…For some, the experience of coming to a new country is far removed, only dusty tales of great-great-grandparents long gone. But for others, the immigrant experience is very fresh, they live it every day in the Grand Rapids area.
…From furnace repairman to dog trainer to architect, these people delivered a message loud and clear about the grit and courage needed to get where they are. They landed here, some with little command of English, and often empty pockets. They scrimped, saved, swallowed hard, and launched their businesses by working around the clock.
…It would be well for state leaders, when citing the need for more entrepreneurial spirit to cure a sick economy, to realize that this immigrant community has lessons for us all
Read the complete story here.
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