London’s Immigrant Entrepreneurs Spark a Thriving Business Ecosystem


Last updated: August 24, 2024

London's Immigrant EntrepreneursLondon, Ontario, has emerged as a powerhouse of immigrant entrepreneurship, outpacing some of Canada’s largest cities.

Fresh data from Statistics Canada reveals that 19.5% of London’s immigrant population aged 25-64 is self-employed, a figure that eclipses even Toronto, Hamilton, and Windsor.

This wave of entrepreneurial energy is transforming London’s business landscape, with newcomers bringing fresh ideas and dynamic ventures that breathe new life into the community.

The contrast is stark: London’s immigrant entrepreneurs significantly outshine their non-immigrant counterparts, whose self-employment rate sits at 12.7%.

One standout example is Skilled Accents, a local business led by Kay Habib, who arrived in Canada in 2006.

Habib’s venture, which specializes in decorative pillows made from recycled textiles, isn’t just a business; it’s a beacon of hope.

Employing nine Syrian and Iraqi refugee women, Skilled Accents embodies the fusion of creativity and purpose that defines London’s entrepreneurial scene.

The entrepreneurial spirit coursing through London’s immigrant community is as diverse as it is dynamic, with business leaders hailing from South Asia, Japan, and beyond.

And as London continues to welcome newcomers, this spirit shows no signs of waning.

Instead, it’s set to further invigorate the city’s economy, fueling innovation and shaking up the business scene in ways that only a rich tapestry of cultures can.

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About The Author

Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Jon Morgan, MBA, LLM, has over ten years of experience growing startups and currently serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter. Educated at UC Davis and Harvard, he offers deeply informed guidance. Beyond work, he enjoys spending time with family, his poodle Sophie, and learning Spanish.
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Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
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