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Immigration brings opportunities for both the migrant and their adopted country when it comes to applied knowledge. Developing countries such as the Philippines — benefit from expats from the west who invest and impart technical knowledge to the country while established countries such as Australia also benefit from migration as the cultural exchange and applied knowledge grants diversity to the increasing globalization movement within the continent.

The controversy incurred from Donald Trump’s reservations and veto of pro-immigration policies are fueled by reservations on an immigrant’s capability to economically sustain themselves as the “America first” stance gravitates towards the priority of equipping natural born Americans with jobs and social welfare privileges.

For Australia, immigration can be utilized as an economic advantage when it comes to the social and commercial development of the country. This is why the Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis and LaunchVic CEO, Kate Cornick, have unveiled a grass-root cooperation program known as LaunchVic’s third round of grants to be awarded as support to the first generation migrants and refugees.

Through a capital worth $1.4 Million, the fund will be allocated to key organizations that will work with immigrants to better develop their skills and ideas into a startup business.

“Victoria is built on the back of a proud tradition of entrepreneurial spirit when it comes to migrants and refugees. If we continue to harness the potential in this group we are one step closer to putting Melbourne on the map as the leading startup destination in the Asia Pacific,” Philip Dalidakis said in a statement found in his website.

Workshops and programs include food entrepreneurship, hackathons fit for ages 18-30, startup seminars, innovation forums and networking events to benefit the would-be business startup owner from immigrants.

The program will be rolled out across regional and rural VIC that will benefit migrants and refugees for their dreams in starting up a small business.

“LaunchVic grants look to fill gaps in the Victorian ecosystem – whether it is infrastructure required or representation for a particular cohort that will ensure greater diversity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusion is a core focus for LaunchVic and the programs announced today will be an important contribution enabling more migrant and refugee entrepreneurs to engage in the Victorian startup ecosystem,” Kate Cornick said.

Full list of LaunchVic Round 3 grant recipients

In helping fund startups and small businesses from migrants, countries can help the grassroots business development through startups.

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