Immigrant entrepreneurship and local development in the Pyrenees: The role of immigrants' human and social capitals

Abstract

The chapter examines how the economic, social, and human capital of international immigrants influences entrepreneurship in rural areas of the French and Spanish Pyrenees. In particular, it investigates the potential for immigrant entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals to contribute to economic growth and social well-being through the varied forms of capital they possess. The chapter is based on extensive fieldwork carried out in both the French and Spanish Pyrenees, consisting of 45 in-depth interviews with international immigrants in three study areas, complemented by 12 open interviews with key informants. Our results indicate that entrepreneurship in the Pyrenees is primarily shaped by immigrants’ human and social capital, with economic capital playing a secondary role. Immigrant success hinges on their adaptability and resilience in establishing business networks within a hospitable community. Their businesses typically serve a dual purpose, encompassing economic and lifestyle objectives, while actively contributing to the cultural and social richness of their host communities.