The Need for a Startup Visa

The article argues that the most significant obstacle to new startup creation in the US is not tax policy, employment law, or even Sarbanes-Oxley; it's the lack of a pathway for aspiring entrepreneurs to enter the country.

• The author believes that allowing 10,000 entrepreneurs to immigrate each year could have a substantial impact on the economy.
• This would potentially create 2,500 new companies annually, which would contribute to job growth.

Benefits of a Startup Visa

The proposed startup visa would allow entrepreneurs to work solely on their new ventures, preventing them from taking jobs away from US citizens. Instead, it's argued that these new companies would create jobs for Americans as they grow.

• The visa would also encourage investment in American startups, attracting capital from foreign investors.
• This would help boost the economy and create new opportunities for innovation.

Addressing Concerns About Defining a Startup

The article acknowledges the challenge of defining a "startup," but suggests a market-driven approach to solve this issue.

• The government could use investment by recognized startup investors as a criterion for determining whether a company is a legitimate startup.
• This would leverage the expertise of experienced venture capitalists in identifying promising new ventures.

How to Implement a Startup Visa

The article suggests a process similar to the one used for university accreditation to determine who qualifies as a startup investor.

• This would ensure a transparent and objective selection process for entrepreneurs seeking the visa.
• The author believes that even a small number of entrepreneurs, such as 10,000, could have a significant impact on the startup ecosystem and the economy.

The Potential Impact of a Startup Visa

The article concludes that a startup visa program would be a relatively inexpensive solution with the potential to significantly boost the US economy.

• It could attract top entrepreneurs from around the world, fostering innovation and driving economic growth.
• The author believes that the positive impact of such a program would be readily apparent, potentially making the legislator who introduced the bill a household name.