Artisan Business Group Offers Corporate Workshop to CID, Inc.

Artisan Business Group will be providing a corporate workshop on "Market Entry Strategies - Establishing a Business Operation in China" for California-based CID, Inc. on Sept 18-19.

If your company needs training for your export staff, please contact us for a free proposal http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Artisan Business Group Hosting Chinese Manufacturers at 2008 IMTS in Chicago

Mr. Brian Su, President of Artisan Business Group will be meeting a group of Chinese manufacturers who are attending 2008 IMTS in Chicago Sept 6-13. The representatives will be coming from Guangdong province, Zhejiang province, and Guizhou provinces, China.

The 2008 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS 2008) is the 27th edition of the premier manufacturing technology show in North America. From September 8-13, more than 1,500 exhibiting companies will occupy 1.2 million net square feet of exhibit space and attract more than 91,000 buyers and sellers from 119 countries.

For details, log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Woodson, Inc. Explores New Market in Korea

After successfully entering China market last year, Woodson, Inc., is now planning "Treasures of King Tut" exhibitions in Korea. Artisan Business Group has been assisting the firm in exploring new markets in Asia since 2007. Artisan Business Group will continue to help the firm identify partners in Seoul, Korea. For more details on how we can help your firm in Asia, please log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com.

Doing Business in Japan

Japanese culture is very different from the American. All aspects of Japanese life, especially business relations, are governed by strict rules of etiquette. A foreign business person who is either ignorant of, or insensitive to, Japanese customs and etiquette needlessly jeopardizes his company's prospects in this country.

This cross-culture presentation is designed to educate U.S. firms and executives on how to effectively communicate and work with Japanese partners and colleagues. The session will show you Japanese business customs and traditions. You will learn about proper protocol and etiquette and discover cultural taboos and useful tips on gestures, tipping, proper greetings, forms of address, business negotiation styles, social protocol, building relationship and much more.

When: any time from the convenience of your desk at home or office; please click to order your PowerPoint Presentation.

For details, contact: http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/japan.htm

Understanding The U.S. Regulatory Environment - Lessons for International Executives Doing Business in the U.S.

The seminar in designed to provide foreign executives with a through grounding in the culture and evolution of the American regulatory system and an understanding of the issues, forces, institutions and laws that impact the U.S. network of business regulation. The format will be lecture and discussion.

Outline

The seminar will provide a basic understanding of the evolution of business regulation and American democracy. Several competing theoretical perspectives, i.e. political economy, social democratic, free markets, etc. will be presented. A consolidated and applicable, dynamic model of the relationship of business and the external environment will be developed and discussed

An examination of the American political system, the role of Government in society and the American public policy process will be presented. The role of the business sector and strategies for managing the public policy process will be discussed.

An examination of the American regulatory spectrum to include the typology of regulations, reasons for regulations and the costs and benefits of regulations will be discussed.

The seminar will address governments’ role in regulating markets and competition and discuss: competition, monopoly, natural monopoly, oligopoly, cartels, price fixing and contestable market theory. Ethical and social responsibilities are also dealt with.

The seminar will address the various systems and responsibilities of U.S. federal, state and local governments in developing and administering business regulatory functions.

The seminar will discuss doing business in the United States and ‘managing’ cross cultural variables.

For more information about the lecturer (registered lobbyist in the U.S.) and fees, please contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.ArtisanBusinessGroup.com

Artisan Business Group Offers U.S. Government Relation Services to International Clients

Artisan Business Group announces government business relationship services to international clients in the U.S. Our senior partner and registered lobbyist Mr. Bernard Sieracki will assist your firm in better understanding American regulatory requirements and environment and help your firm interact and communicate with U.S. public officials and government agencies.

Bernard Sieracki has been representing business and public interests to government and the general public for over thirty years. His concentration has been within the State of Illinois, however; his experience also includes work with the United States Congress, federal agencies and several mid-western states. He represents clients in the legislative debate as well as rule-making and compliance issues before regulatory agencies. He has negotiated contract and grant agreements between government entities, private business and Illinois universities.

During his tenure as a representative to government for private industry Sieracki acted as the media spokesman for major industries and has appeared on numerous radio and television news programs. He acted as the spokesman for the American Petroleum Institute during the oil embargo. Sieracki currently serves as a guest host for the Illinois Channel; an Illinois based political affairs television program carried in over 80 Illinois cities.

His experience includes serving on industry grant evaluation committees and government advisory boards and has spoken and delivered papers at business conferences.

He was adjunct professor of political science at Illinois State University from 2002 to 2006 teaching undergraduate courses and a graduate seminar and currently teaches at the University of Illinois at Springfield. His courses deal with state and municipal government, regulatory affairs and the role of lobbying in the policy formation process. He has been a presenter at the Illinois Historical Preservation Agency’s annual ‘Illinois History Conference’ and also served as a moderator for presentations and panel discussions.

Bernard Sieracki received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Roosevelt University and Master of Arts degree in Political Science and Ph.D. in Public Administration from the University of Illinois, Chicago. His dissertation examine the cultural, political, legal and economic transformations that led Illinois to establish the first ‘strong’ regulatory state agency in the United States, ‘The Illinois Railroad and Warehouse Commission of 1873.

If you or your company have a business issue with the U.S. government agencies, please contact Mr. Brian Su at http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Artisan Business Group Seeking International Business Partners Worldwide

As our firm continues to expand and secure clients across the globe, we are continuing to form mutually-profitable relationships with select strategic partners from all over the world. If your firm engages in the areas of international business and trade consultancy, and is interested in partnering with Artisan Business Group (USA), please contact us to discuss possible collaborations.

Please contact us for inquiries on international partnership program at http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/global.htm

Doing Business in India - A Complete Culture and Business Guide

The Indian market with its one billion plus population, presents lucrative and diverse opportunities for U.S. exporters. India’s requirements for equipments and services for major sectors such as energy, environmental, healthcare, high-tech, infrastructure, transportation, and defense will exceed tens of billions of dollars in the mid-term as the Indian economy further globalizes and expands. India has potential for a sustained growth of 8-10% for the next couple of years. Now is the time for U.S. companies to enter the rising Indian market. The PowerPoint presentation will introduce you every aspect of business culture and protocol as well as effective market entry strategies in India.
When: any time from the convenience of your desk at home or office; please click to order your PowerPoint Presentation.

Log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/Asia_Seminars.htm for details.

Doing Business with Korea

At first glance, Korea appears to be "just like any other nation." Its capital city, Seoul, is a modern, thriving metropolis with all of the latest technology the world has to offer. All over Korea, you'll find first-class telecommunications, the requisite five-star hotels, Western restaurants, modern transport systems (including very efficient subway networks in Seoul and Busan), innovative architecture, and so forth. Nonetheless, it is still very Korean and it is imperative that any American doing business in Korea realizes that Seoul is not Los Angeles (even though the latter, in fact, has a sizeable Korean community). Every year Korea becomes more and more modern, but it is important to recognize that modern does not equal Western. Koreans will not expect you to be an expert on the nuances of their culture, but they will appreciate a show of interest in matters that are important to them. Koreans generally appreciate a foreigner's effort in expressing a thank you (gam-sa-ham-ni-da) or a hello (an-yong-ha-say-yo) in the Korean language.

Though Koreans have transitioned greatly into Western society, the traditional ways of thinking in many areas are still practiced. Koreans have a great respect for the family and hierarchy. Extended families (i.e., parents living with middle-aged married “children” and their grandchildren) are still commonplace, although this is rapidly changing. Among the older generation, the father is the primary wage earner, while the mother stays at home. Due to changing social mores and economic pressures, the necessity for families to have double incomes is rapidly growing in Korea. Although fathers are the primary income earners, in the majority of cases, salaries are entrusted to their wives and most day-to-day consumption decisions are at the discretion of the female spouse. US companies may wish to take into consideration these traditional family roles when marketing to Korean consumers.

Even though there are incremental changes in Korean attitudes and women are making progress, women professionals at the highest levels are still very rare. In Korean companies, the majority of working women, many with top university degrees, are still relegated to secretarial jobs, accounting or educational work. Many qualified women welcome the opportunity to work as a professional with a foreign company whose attitudes toward gender equality and professional respect and responsibility prevail.

Koreans still have a great respect for anyone senior in age, and intuitively establish their hierarchical position relative to others based on age. Indeed, one of the fundamental principles of the Korean language is based on the plethora of verb endings, which indicate the level of respect accorded to another person. In addition, a man generally receives more respect in the business world than a woman, though foreign businesswomen (especially, non-Asian looking women) are accorded almost an equal amount of respect as foreign businessmen. Single women generally receive less -respect than married women whose ties to their husband oftentimes establish their position in society. The American businessperson, as a foreigner, is generally exempt from the above societal classification system, although one should be prepared to answer questions that Koreans may regard as common to establish societal hierarchy but which foreigners may regard as personal, such as questions about age and marital status.

Americans should be ready to mix business with social life as the Koreans base their business relationships on personal ones. The heavy drinking of the Korean alcohol, Soju, beer, scotch, or other liquor is commonplace in establishing a personal, business relationship. Also commonplace is the "no-rae-bang" where a group of businesspeople go to an establishment to drink and sing along to a video machine playing music. As most no-rae-bang machines come equipped with songs in English, a businessperson may want to be prepared to sing at least one song in order to gain social favor with their Korean counterpart. Although not as common as the no-rae-bang, businessmen should also be aware of “room salons” where Korean women serve food and drink to their patrons.

When doing business, Americans should be sensitive to Korea's historical relationship with Japan, which made a virtual colony of the Korean peninsula. Because of the Japanese colonial period, Koreans have an emotionally intense reaction at times to things Japanese, though there is an admiration for Japanese business acumen. A businessperson should show great respect towards Korean society. Any comparative mention of Japan versus Korea, where Japan has the upper edge may harm a business deal.

Korea still observes Confucian ethics based on strong ties to a group. Whereas an American may think in individual terms, (i.e., what is in my best interest?), a Korean frequently thinks in group terms, (i.e., what is in the best interests of the group and how can I help to maintain harmony within the group?) For this reason, the majority of Koreans are intensely patriotic, calling Korea by the term, "oo-ri-na-ra", ("our" country). In order to close a deal when negotiating, the benefits for the group, whether for the company or country, should be emphasized.

For Koreans, relationships are all important. "Cold calls" don't work and introductions are crucial. Koreans want to do business with people with whom they have formed a personal connection or whereby a mutual intermediary has made an introduction. As alumni contacts are a major source of networking in Korea, a particularly well-connected Korean will have attended a prestigious Korean university such as Seoul National University, Yonsei University, Korea University or Ehwa Women’s University.

The exchange of business cards is very important and a means by which Koreans learn about the name, position and status of the other person. Koreans observe a very strict hierarchical code whereby Koreans will generally meet to discuss business with persons of the same, parallel rank. Businesspersons should always have their (preferably bilingual) business cards ready and should treat the exchange of a Korean counterpart's card with respect. (It is a sign of respect to receive and present items with both hands, followed in business etiquette by passing and receiving a card with the right hand. One should never give a card, or anything else for that matter, with the left hand as it shows disrespect). For historical reasons, Chinese characters, which Koreans can generally understand, are regarded as more sophisticated. As such, a business card written in Chinese characters can serve for a business trip to Korea, China, and Japan.

Negotiating style is particularly important. Koreans can prove subtle and effective negotiators, and a commitment to a rigid negotiating stance early on may work to the American's disadvantage. Your offer may include the best price, technology and profit potential but still be turned down because the Korean customer does not like your style.

An important point to keep in mind concerns the nature of reaching an agreement with a Korean firm. Westerners attach great importance to a written contract that specifies each detail of the business relationship. Koreans, on the other hand, value a contract as a loosely structured consensus statement that broadly defines what has been negotiated, but leaves sufficient room to permit flexibility and adjustment. The Korean Government has attempted to address this dual perception by formulating "model" contracts for licensing technology and other arrangements. Both parties must be assured that the obligations spelled out in a negotiated contract are fully understood.

Most Koreans have three names. These names usually follow the Chinese pattern of a surname followed by two given names. In a Korean household, all brothers and sisters have the same last name and a common given name; the only distinguishing mark is the remaining given name. In addressing Koreans, foreigners should observe the use of surnames (e.g., Mr. Kim; Ms. Lee), using formal titles if possible (e.g. Dr. Yoo; Director Song). The most common last names are Kim, Lee, and Park. In the use of formal titles as appropriate, one should always be familiar with the complete name, including the two given names, for identification purposes, as there may be several Mr. Park's or Dr. Lee's in the same company and even the same work space. (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce)

Log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/Asia_seminars.htm for more information.

ABG President Brian Su Speaking at Illinois Soybean Association

Brian Su, President of Artisan Business Group, is an invited speaker at the executive board meeting of the Illinois Soybean Association in Springfield today. China is one of the main importer of Illinois soybean in the last decade. Mr. Brian Su's "Doing Business with China" presentation has helped ISA board members to better understand Chinese business practice. Mark Albertson, Marketing Director of ISA, along with 24 board members and representatives from Illinois Agriculture Association attend the event.

For details on our China Speaker Bureau, log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Artisan Business Group Presents "Managing Asia" Business Seminar Series

"Managing Asia" seminar series will help educate yourself or your employees on doing business with Korea, India, Japan and other Asian countries. We offer two unique and effective ways of training your company in successful methods of doing business in Asia.

PowerPoint Presentations are delivered through updated and information-packed PowerPoint slides. Simply order your presentation on the Web, then learn at home on your own schedule and pace. This is the most convenience and cost efficient way to gain instant knowledge about doing business in Asia! Each session comes with our online counseling and support, you can ask up to 10 e-mail questions to our presenter. Phone counseling is available at discount rate. Your presentation slides will be emailed you in two working days.

On-Site Seminars are delivered to your office or events! We welcome inquiries from associations, chamber of commerce, colleges, international trade and small business assistance centers. Contact us today to discuss your goals for doing business with China and we will develop a workshop exclusively for your company. 1 hour, 1/2 Day or 1 Day sessions are available.

Log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/Asia_Seminars.htm

Aug. 13 INTERNATIONAL TRADE PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION

Workshop sponsored by the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at Bradley University and the U.S. Commercial Service. Two National Import Specialists from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, New York City, will discuss the intricacies of product classification, particularly in their areas of expertise: telecommunications apparatus; transformers; static converters; electronic components; agricultural machines; tractors; excavating machines; engines; planes; trains. 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., PeoriaNext Innovation Center, 801 West Main Street, Room A114, Peoria, IL. Fee: $25. For information & registration, please see: www.bradley.edu/turnercenter/events/itc_class.html, or call: 309/677-3075.

Log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

ABG Announces "Doing Business with Korea" Presentation

Doing Business with Korea

This presentation is designed to educate U.S. firms and executives in on the promising export opportunities in South Korean after the two countries signed U.S.-Korean Free Trade Agreement in 2007. The session will show you Korean business customs and traditions. You will learn about proper protocol and etiquette and discover cultural taboos and useful tips on gestures, tipping, proper greetings, forms of address, social protocol, building relationship and much more.

When: any time from the convenience of your desk at home or office; please click to order your PowerPoint Presentation.

For more details, log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

The Celebration of Peace and Harmony - 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games

FREE Download - "Doing Business with China" PowerPoint Presentation

Thinking about doing business with China? We have prepared a powerpoint presentation "Doing Business with China" - you now can download a complete copy free of charge! Simply log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/china_seminars.htm and download the PDF file.

Becoming a Federally-designated EB-5 Regional Center in the U.S.

"Becoming a Federally-designated EB-5 Regional Center in the U.S."

The PowerPoint presentation is programmed for public and private entities that are seeking new and unique solutions to help local business growth and economic development through establishing an EB-5 Regional Center designation with the USCIS. EB-5 program has brought in billions of dollars in direct foreign investment and created tens of thousands of jobs in the U.S. Learn the requirements and application process and find out how your area can benefit from foreign investment. The Questions & Answers session allows you to ask 10 questions via email.

When: any time from the convenience of your desk at home or office; click to order your PowerPoint Presentation.

For details, log on http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

2008 Food & Hotel China on December 4-6, 2008

The U.S. is China’s largest supplier of agricultural, fishery and forestry products. Food & Hotel China offers exhibitors the opportunity to introduce products to the retail, bar and restaurant, and travel and catering sectors. FHC China is the country’s largest and most established international trade show in China for imported food and beverage suppliers. In 2007, the show attracted over 17,000 visitors. At Food & Hotel China, SUSTA will promote the variety of quality products available from the southern U.S. to Chinese buyers. Suppliers are invited to participate in the Southern Originals pavilion at the show, where they will receive a comprehensive package of tradeshow services, including booth space, pre-show market briefings, assistance with buyer meetings, and post-show support for follow-up.

For details, contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com

Arizona Branded Seminar August 6, 2008

Arizona State Department of Food & Agriculture presents Branded Program Seminar. Attend a Branded Program Seminar for only $40 (including lunch) to learn about a federally funded (Market Access Program) matching funds program for food and agricultural exporters. Eligible participants receive assistance for trade shows, advertising, in-store demo, PR, and other promotional expenses. Many domestic trade shows are eligible under this program! Contact http://www.midwestUSAChina.com for details.

Add ABG to Your Business Relationship with China

Artisan Business Group is a consulting and advisory services headed by China expert Brian Su. We assist small and mid-sized business in capturing opportunities in the People's Republic of China through advising them on issues of Chinese market entry, government regulations and risk management.

With China's entry into the WTO and billions of dollars in foreign investment, China is becoming the World's Manufacturing Factory; the country's hosting of the 2008 Olympics and the 2010 World Fair will provide new growth opportunities for many small and mid-size companies. In order to benefit from this emerging market, American executives and entrepreneurs must combine proper business analysis and solid communication with the Chinese counterparts. We are your bridge to the new emerging markets in China, we are here to assist you achieve that goal.

• Is your company currently engaged in or planning to do business with China?

• Do your key managers and employees interact with a significant number of Chinese counterparts?

• Have you encountered communication difficulties when working with people from China, i.e. meeting expectations, defining deliverables?

China is one of the most exciting markets in the world. It is also one of the most challenging. The Chinese are smart, touch negotiators. Understanding how to do business effectively with the Chinese is essential in today's competitive marketplace.

We focuses on working with clients through training, consulting and coaching. Our goal is to assist non-Chinese business managers, who do business directly or indirectly with businesspeople in China, develop an understanding of how business is done and how to be successful. Our major services include:

China Advisory & Consultancy

• Market research & entry strategy
• Finding the right partners in China
• Credit checks & taxation advice
• Identifying suitable areas and premises in China
• Recruitment under Chinese employment laws
• Management briefings, orientation & mentoring
• Intellectual property issues

Sourcing Development

• Identify the most-reputable and best-qualified factories & ensure high-quality results for your products
• Lower material costs with competitive pricing negotiated on your behalf from the factories
• Set up and facilitate a relationship between two parties
• Develop and promote products to the Chinese market
• Product promotion party & exhibition arrangements with potential clients and government officials

Other Consulting Services

• Provide translations services
• Offer in house workshops and online services
• Help set up dependable business networks in China
• Assist travel and trip arrangements, including pre-departure orientation sessions
• Offer pre-departure orientation and counseling
• Website translation and content localization
• Services on a retainer basis available

Artisan Business Group Offers China Information Services

Need quick information or guidance? Our CIAs (China Intelligence Associates) have compiled informational fact sheet (PDF file) on various subjects. Simply browse through and click the link to order a copy, your order is usually sent via email in 2 or 3 business days. Major credit cards are accepted via PayPal (a minimum processing fee is charged for each order).

TRAVEL

• Getting a Visa for Your China Mission

• Business Travel Alert: a List of Chinese Holidays

• Things You Need to Know before Relocating to China

• Tips for You: Travel to China

• Visiting China: Travel, Health and Safety Issues

BUSINESS

• Overview of China's Economy

• Guide to Doing Business in China

• Business Resources for US Companies in China

• Chinese Name for Yourself (translation service)

• Chinese Names for You and Your Company (translation service)

• Chinese Market Outlook (specify your industry)

• Chinese Corporate System: State vs. Private Enterprise

• Corporate Income Tax in China

• Critical Elements for Selecting Partners

• Choosing the Best Location for Your Operations

• Doing Business with China: Key Success Factors

• Establishing a Successful Business Presence in China

• How to Establish a Representative Office in China

• Investing in China: Options for US Companies

• Investing in China: Provincial Fact (pick a province)

• Setting up a Distribution Channel in China

• Opportunities beyond Shanghai and Beijing

• Managing Logistics in China

• Marketing to Chinese Consumers

• Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights in China

• Practical Tips on Effective Communication with Chinese

• Win-Win Negotiating with Chinese

• Recruitment and HR Issues in China

• Dispute Avoidance and Dispute Resolution in China

TRADE

• Introduction to Exporting to Greater China

• China's CCC Mark - a Quick Guide to US Exporters

• Export Opportunities in China (specify your industry)

• Finding a Reliable Supplier in China

• Major Trade Shows and Int'l Exhibitions in China

• Tips for Small Business: Importing from China

SOURCING

• A Road Map for Sourcing from China

• Critical Elements for Selecting Partners

• Developing an Effective Sourcing Strategy

• Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights in China

CULTURE

• Introduction to Chinese Corporate Culture

• Chinese Language and Regional Differences

• Chinese Names for You and Your Business (translation service)

• The Concept of 'Face' and 'Guanxi'

• American Businesswomen and Chinese (Women's Role in Business)

• Participating in Chinese Banquets

• Practical Tips on Effective Communication with Chinese

• Receiving and Hosting a Chinese Delegation

• Win-Win Negotiating with Chinese

GOVERNMENT, LEGAL & OTHERS

• Introduction to Chinese Governmental Structures

• Effectively Dealing with Chinese Governmental Officials

• Introduction to Taxation System in China

• Introduction to Accounting Standards in China

• Introduction to Chinese Legal System

• Legal Issues in China

• Dispute Avoidance and Dispute Resolution in China

• Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights in China

Establishing an EB5 Project for Your Community or City to Attract Foreign Business Investors

Are you looking for an EB-5 expert to assist your organization in establishing your very own EB-5 Regional Center, starting your EB-5 investment project or marketing your program to international investors? Mr. Brian Su has advised a number of EB-5 executives and law firms on how to successfully establish an EB-5 project and effectively identify reliable partners in international market. Mr. Su assisted EB-5 projects in finding reliable partners and agents in China, South Korea, India and other Asian countries. Please contact Mr. Su today for details! Mr. Su is an invited seminar speaker at a national EB-5 conference in Orlando, Florida this coming September.

"Attracting Asian Investors to U.S. EB-5 Projects"
The presentation is programmed for federally approved regional centers (EB-5 investment projects) and law firms that handle immigration cases.
Topics: Overview of Asian Outbound Immigration Investments; Major EB-5 Projects Available in Asian Market; the Characteristics of Asian Investors; Asian Investors' Decision Making Process; Developing Effective Marketing Strategies; Partnering with Asian Marketers; Cultural and Legal Issues, Q & A., etc.
When: any time from the convenience of your desk at home or office; Order Your Presentation at http://www.midwestUSAChina.com/eb5.htm

Mr. Brian Su has extensive experience in international trade, business development, marketing management, and strategic planning. Prior to founding Artisan Business Group, Mr. Su served Illinois governor Jim Edgar and assisted him in his successful trade mission to China in 1996 and helped him host a numbers of Chinese government and trade delegations. Before coming to the U.S. in 1989, Mr. Su worked as a marketing manager for China Non-Ferrous Metals Import and Export Corporation. He has a MPA degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in the U.S., and a Bachelor degree in English from Guizhou University in China. He is fluent in Chinese Mandarin and English. His extensive network of Chinese government and business connections, together with the amalgam of his Chinese background, U.S. education and multinational work experience, leaves him well placed to bridge the business knowledge gap between the two cultures. Mr. Su is able to give its clients a unique inside view of what is happening in China found nowhere else. Mr. Su is a public speaker, speaking on a wide range of China-related business and culture topics.

EB-5 Project Overview

To encourage foreign investment in the U.S. economy through the EB-5 category, Congress created an EB-5 Pilot Program in 1993. By so doing, Congress permitted the U.S. immigration agency to designate qualified applicants as Regional Centers. A Regional Center is a private enterprise or corporation or a regional governmental agency with a targeted investment program within a defined geographic region. The Regional Center program in many ways mirrors long active and successful investment-employment based programs in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other foreign nations.

The Regional Center Investment Program allocates 3,000 green cards each year for people who invest in designated Regional Centers. The Program has been renewed several times, and is currently due to expire September 30, 2008.

The Regional Center Investment Program does not require that the foreign investor's enterprise itself directly employ 10 U.S. workers. Instead, it is enough if 10 or more jobs will be created directly or indirectly as a result of the investment. The Regional Center Investment Program aids foreign investors by directing and professionally managing their investment in the designated business and geographic focus of their Regional Center.

Before an investor can participate in a Regional Center EB-5 investment program, each investor must independently petition USCIS for an EB-5 visa. USCIS solely determines whether the investor qualifies for the EB-5 visa. USCIS' diligence includes a detailed review of the sources of the investor's funds, family history, and other representations of the head of household and his immediate family member under the age of 21.

As with the regular EB-5 program, qualified investors investing through a Regional Center first receive a conditional green card valid for two years. At the end of that time the investor files another application with USCIS showing that their money was "at risk" during the two-year period and that the jobs have been created. Once those applications have been approved, the investor and his immediate family become permanent green card holders and can later apply to become U.S. citizens. The whole EB-5 process takes approximately 3-5 years or longer depending upon the timeliness, quality and validity of the investor's submissions.

The requirements for an investor under the Pilot Program are essentially the same as in the basic EB-5 investor program except the Pilot Program allows for a less restrictive requirement for “indirect” rather than “direct” job creation. The capital investment requirement for any EB-5 investor, inside or outside a Regional Center is $1 million. The capital investment requirement for an EB-5 investor in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or a Rural Area (RA) is $500,000.

For more information about how to start up your own Regional Center or EB-5 Program, please contact Mr. Brian Su today.