Unleashing the potential of a heterogeneous society Migrant-run companies as drivers of inclusive growth. Bertelsmann Stiftung Growth for Germany 2015/02 Inclusive Growth for Germany 2015/02

Niemann, Friederike-Sophie and Schmidt, Armando García (2015) Unleashing the potential of a heterogeneous society Migrant-run companies as drivers of inclusive growth. Bertelsmann Stiftung Growth for Germany 2015/02 Inclusive Growth for Germany 2015/02. UNSPECIFIED.

PDF - Published Version Download (2903Kb)

Abstract

As compared with many of its European partners, Germany is currently in a good economic position. But looking solely at economic growth is deceptive. Growth in recent years has not been inclusive, as participation opportunities have become increasingly unequally distributed. This puts social cohesion at risk. But what might policies that achieve both goals —realizing growth potential and expanding participation opportunities—look like? As a part of its “Strategies and Investments for Inclusive Growth” project, the Bertelsmann Stiftung develops and discusses concrete recommendations for an inclusive growth model. Using current research as a basis, this discussion paper discusses the degree to which the entrepreneurial activity of immigrants and people with a migrant background are today already serving to drive inclusive growth in Germany, and how potential of this kind can be identified. The conditions rendering it possible to engage in entrepre neurial activity in a country have a direct effect even beyond that country’s national economic performance. Who founds companies and who does not, and the degree of sustainability displayed by the companies founded, says much about how participation opportunities are distributed within a society. Are conditions such that groups that still lack full equality of opportunity within economic processes, such as women, young people, and people with an experience of immigration or a migrant background, are able as business people to become pace‑setters for a successful economy? Or is their potential overlooked and unused? What specific obstacles are in place?

Actions (login required)