Insights from migrant entrepreneurship in Portugal pre- and post- COVID- 19

Abstract

This study explores the resilience of Brazilian businesses in Porto, Portugal, focusing on those that survivedthe COVID-19 pandemic. Entrepreneurs were interviewed before and after the pandemic, providing insightsinto the local entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) from a migrant perspective. Using a mixed embeddednessapproach, the research examines the pandemic’s impact on these businesses and identifies attributes criticalto their survival. This study highlights conceptual gaps in the EE framework, particularly regarding small businessesand migrant entrepreneurship during crises. Through Eisenhardt’s case study methodology, data werecollected via 32 in-depth interviews before the pandemic, with follow-ups revealing that only 15 businessesremained operational. Five surviving entrepreneurs were interviewed in detail. Resilient businesses, suchas restaurants and computer/cell-phone repair shops, adapted by offering in-home services and leveragingsocial media to engage clients, demonstrating creativity and risk-taking. Unlike many local entrepreneurs,Brazilians exhibited higher risk tolerance, using government financial aid not only for personal needs butalso to sustain their businesses. This research contributes to the literature by addressing theoretical gaps inmixed embeddedness and EE concepts, while applying an innovative analytical framework combining mixedembeddedness, resilience strategies, and resource orchestration theory. It offers practical implications forpolicymakers and stakeholders, emphasizing the economic and social integration of migrants. Tailored supportstrategies are recommended to address the unique challenges migrants face, underscoring the broadercontributions of migrant businesses to economic growth and social cohesion in host communities