Bristol event unlocks the entrepreneurial talent of refugees

On 30th October, over 50 people from a wide range of organisations attended the ‘Unlocking the Entrepreneurial Talent of Refugees’ conference at the Engine Shed in Bristol.

At this event, Ashley Community Housing presented their ground-breaking research project, in collaboration with the Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (CREME). This research revealed some of the opportunities and challenges facing new migrant entrepreneurs, and made recommendations for supporting them. You can read the full or summarised report at http://www.ashleyhousing.com/about-us/research/.

Topics included the valuable economic contribution of migrants to the UK, and the mismatch between their aspirations and reality. From the evidence presented, it was clear that while refugee entrepreneurs have the skill and talent to succeed in growing a business, a number of barriers prevent them from meeting their full potential.

Some of these barriers were identified during the conference, and possible solutions were put forward: such as the need to make mainstream business support more accessible and inclusive, and to develop new methods of accessing finance for refugees. Another focus of the discussion was the communication gap between support services and potential service users, and the ways that providers can effectively reach out to refugee and migrant communities.

Councillor Asher Craig closed the conference by emphasising the need for communication between key organisations, and for clear, practical actions going forward:

“We are committed to making a difference and improving the lives of migrant entrepreneurs. We need actions and purpose.” Cllr. Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor – Communities, Equalities & Public Health, Bristol City Council.