Why One French Investor Bet on the American Dream

Rose Odette
Nov 2
2 min read

Introduction

When most people think about immigrating to the United States, they picture student visas or job sponsorships. But one French entrepreneur saw a different path — the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa — as his way to build his future rather than borrow it.

The Story - French Investor

After years running a small eco-manufacturing business in Lyon, he wanted to give his family more opportunity and expand into a market that rewarded innovation. During a visit to Michigan, he fell in love with the Great Lakes region’s spirit of entrepreneurship and the energy around Traverse City’s waterfront development scene.

Today, his family holds green cards, his investment has turned profitable, and his story inspires other European investors to follow a purpose-driven path to U.S. residency.

Five Ideals

Courage to Invest in a Vision – Real entrepreneurs don’t wait for doors to open; they build new ones.
Mutual Prosperity – True immigration success benefits both the investor and the community.
Strategic Guidance Matters – The right legal and business partners can make or break the journey.
Cultural Integration Through Contribution – Investing in local growth fosters connection, not just compliance.
Long-Term Thinking Wins – EB-5 isn’t a shortcut; it’s a legacy play.

Five Action Items

Research regional centers in your target state before investing.
Document your funding source early to meet USCIS standards.
Join a mastermind or coaching group to stay informed and accountable.
Partner with FINRA-licensed advisors for transparent investment management.
Focus on projects that genuinely create jobs and community impact.

Conclusion

The EB-5 visa isn’t just an immigration path — it’s a business model for contribution. From Lyon to Traverse City, this French investor didn’t just move countries; he moved markets. That’s what it means to bet on the American Dream.