Key Factors Attracting Migrant Entrepreneurs to Mexico
According to the Association of Entrepreneurs of Mexico (Asem), favorable macroeconomic conditions, the size of the economy, and a change in residence are the primary reasons driving migrants to start businesses in Mexico. The study “Radiografía del emprendimiento en México 2025, edición migrantes” reveals that 4.6% of companies in Mexico have at least one foreigner as a founder. Of this percentage, 53.4% are female and 46.6% are male.
Profile of Migrant Entrepreneurs
The Asem report also outlines the profile of migrant entrepreneurs. The average age is 44%, and 60% completed their last degree at a private institution.
Most migrant entrepreneurs come from Latin American countries such as Venezuela (22.7%), Colombia (19.3%), Argentina (13.6%), and Peru (5.7%). Following these, the United States (5.7%) and Spain (5.7%) are popular origins, among others.
The findings indicate that, in most cases, Mexico was not the intended destination “to start a business” from day one: only 8.0% of migrant founders arrived with the explicit intention to create a company. Their arrival in the country was primarily due to an employment offer (23.9% of cases), a romantic relationship (19.3%), or family ties (19.3%). Furthermore, 15.9% of migrant founders have refugee status for humanitarian reasons.
Impact and Relevance of Migrant Entrepreneurs
Migrant entrepreneurs contribute significantly to Mexico’s economy, bringing diverse skills and international experience. Their businesses create jobs and foster innovation, enriching local communities and industries. As the Asem study highlights, these entrepreneurs often identify Mexico’s economic potential as their primary motivator for starting a business.
The presence of migrant entrepreneurs reflects broader global trends, with more people seeking opportunities in different countries due to political instability, economic challenges, or personal growth. Understanding the motivations and obstacles faced by these individuals can help policymakers create a more inclusive and supportive environment for entrepreneurship.
Key Questions and Answers
- What percentage of companies in Mexico have at least one foreign founder? 4.6%
- What is the gender distribution among migrant founders in Mexico? 53.4% female and 46.6% male
- What are the primary reasons migrants start businesses in Mexico? Favorable macroeconomic conditions, the size of the economy, and a change in residence
- What are the average age and educational background of migrant entrepreneurs in Mexico? The average age is 44%, and 60% completed their last degree at a private institution
- What are the most common countries of origin for migrant entrepreneurs in Mexico? Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru
- What percentage of migrant founders arrived in Mexico with the intention to create a company? 8.0%
- What were the primary reasons for migrants to move to Mexico? Employment opportunities, romantic relationships, family ties, and humanitarian refugee status
