How do I turn my startup into an EB-5 project?

If it will remain a private project only one EB-5 investor will qualify. If you want multiple investors, you will need to either form a Regional Center and be approved by USCIS or affiliate with an existing Regional Center. We are happy to help you on this journey either way as there are many steps to take to show the nature of the project, econometric studies, creation of ten full time jobs per investor, etc.

The first step is to create a regional center and get it approved by USCIS or affiliated with the approved one. Before your can get any EB-5 investors, you also need to file a Form I-956F project application with USCIS for that specific project.

This is a loaded question but here is brief roadmap. I am happy to help you if you decide to pursue this route:

Confirm Eligibility
* Ensure your business is a for-profit enterprise that can create at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs per EB-5 investor.

Determine Investment Amount
* $800,000 if located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA); otherwise, $1,050,000.
* Obtain a TEA letter if applicable.

Set Up Legal Structure
* Form a New Commercial Enterprise (NCE) (receives EB-5 funds) and a Job-Creating Entity (JCE) (runs the project).
Prepare Required Documents
* EB-5 business plan (Matter of Ho compliant)
* Economic impact/job creation report
* Securities offering documents (PPM, subscription agreement)

Decide on EB-5 Route
* Direct EB-5: Simpler, but only direct jobs count.
* Regional Center: More complex, but includes indirect job creation. You can affiliate with an existing one.

Open Escrow & Hire Fund Administrator

* Set up an escrow account and appoint a third-party fund administrator (or arrange CPA audit) for compliance.
Ensure SEC Compliance
* Work with a securities attorney to follow U.S. securities laws (Reg D and/or Reg S).

Attract Investors
* Partner with regional centers or licensed migration agents.
* Provide a clear business plan, risk disclosure, job creation plan, and exit strategy.