Could we use the EB-5 program to acquire investors?

Yes. The direct program would be a viable option. You need to determine how many jobs would be created.

It sounds that it is doable. But until I have a lot of other details I won''t be able to answer with certainty. Please call me to discuss if you wish (free of any charge).

Legally speaking, it''s probably doable assuming you can create the ten jobs per $500k or $1M invested, depending on where you are. In addition, it would be wise to consider how likely you would be to attract investors. Without knowing more details, it would be tough to really comment on that.

The investment would have to support at least 10 jobs per every EB5 investor for two years. Do you think your company qualifies for that.

You might. Bakeries employ lots of bakers. But please understand that the EB-5 Program is difficult to work on a good day.

Your question is very appropriate in light of the fact that some projects that are EB 5 related are small in nature. The essence of EB 5 is US job creation. Thus, for every $500,000 or $1 million in capital, the business expansion will need to generate no less than ten direct US employees who are either residents or citizens of the US.

EB-5 investment must be invested into a new business enterprise or into a failing business, which has lost 40% of the value. Also, for every EB-5 investment you receive, you must create 10 full-time, permanent jobs. Thus, you need to evaluate how many full-time employees you currently support in your business and how many could be realistically created. Please note that EB-5 program is designed to create jobs from these investments, not just another investment for realizing high returns. However, depending on how the business plan is set up for this expansion, i.e. new enterprise for the franchises, for example, it could be possible. Please consult with a corporate attorney in conjunction with an immigration attorney for how to accomplish this.

This is a potential you must further explore with an EB-5 Attorney; I''d be happy to schedule a consult for you.

Yes, this could be an appropriate venue for you to raise funds. All types of businesses are acceptable.

The short answer is you absolutely could use the EB-5 program for your expansion. The long answer is ''it depends.'' Whether your investment, the business plan and financial return would be sufficient enough to entice investors is the biggest issue. Investors generally prefer investments with principals that have experience with the EB-5 program in order to ensure they fully comply and receive their green card at the end of the day. If you have a possible source of investors, that might take care of this potential problem.