Current immigration policies in the U.S. are making it almost impossible for foreign entrepreneurs to come to the U.S., start new companies, and create American jobs. In this episode, we explore how immigration affects the entrepreneurial ecosystem and why a startup visa is critical for global competition. 

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren answers the big question: why can’t we establish an immigration avenue for entrepreneurs from around the world? She shares where immigration legislation currently stands, including the Let Immigrants Kickstart Employment (LIKE) Act, and what obstacles this legislation faces. 

NVCA’s General Counsel Jeff Farrah discusses the role of immigration in entrepreneurship, how immigration reform has changed over the years, and how NVCA is working to get startup visa legislation passed.

Lastly, founder and CEO of Make, Nishat Rustagi shares his story. Nishat was an international student who came to the U.S. to study. While here, he started a successful and valuable company, but was forced to leave in 2021 as there was no startup visa. Nishat shares why America is so desirable for entrepreneurs, and how difficult it is to run his America made company from abroad.

To register for our events, or to learn more about the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) visit our website.

For the venture capital industry to be the best version of itself, we must enhance diversity and inclusivity. In this first episode of Venture Capitol, we hear from the industry leaders who are working to make venture capital accessible to all. 

Host Bobby Franklin talks with Maryam Haque, Executive Director of Venture Forward, on how they are driving human capital, values, and industry education to create a more inclusive space in the venture capital world. Then, we hear the story of Meagan Loyst, founder of Gen Z VC, on how she built a global community empowering the next generation of leaders in venture capital and how they’re changing the narrative of what traditional investors and investments look like. We also share exciting new data that reveals how VCs are impacting economies in all 50 states and why policymakers should be aware of this. 

Venture Forward is a non-profit organization that relies on donations made by individual and corporate donors. You can donate here.

To register for our events, or to learn more about the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) or Venture Forward, visit our website.