Immigrants Establishing Business in Porvoo : Obstacles and Opportunities

Abstract

Entrepreneurship prospects in Finland are high as the Finnish economic policy foster entrepreneurship possibilities. The aim of this research is to enlighten prospective immigrant entrepreneurs in Porvoo on the problems encountered by immigrant entrepreneurs. The study is also geared to reveal the opportunities available in Porvoo and the approaches immigrant entrepreneurs could use to enhance better business operations.

A qualitative research method was adopted to acquire detailed information and a semi-structured interview approach was used to keep the conversation towards the research aims. The survey was carried out between July and September 2010. A total of seven immigrant entrepreneurs, one business advisor and six international business students of the Porvoo Unit of HAAGA HELIA UAS were interviewed. Other information for the research was obtained from websites of the appropriate authorities, articles, previous researches, books, and printed documents. The theoretical framework is structured to create better comprehension of the research topic.

The findings of the research reveal that most immigrant entrepreneurs in Porvoo have prior experience and they have lived and have been operating their business in Finland for several years. The study also revealed that they encounter problems like high competition, noticeable traces of discrimination, difficulty at the early stage of their businesses, unfavorable business location, and incompetent employees. Businesses such as services for the ageing population, tourist services, import and supply of gift items, hair salons and spa are revealed as other possibilities for immigrant entrepreneurs in Porvoo. Furthermore, support possibilities that could enhance business success among immigrant are noted as opportunities that most immigrant entrepreneurs in Porvoo fail to utilize.

Finally, recommendations are made based on the research findings and the knowledge acquired from the theory part of the research and suggestions are given for further research