An electrical engineer sought NIW for work in renewable solar energy. AAO agreed with USCIS that the proposed endeavor has substantial merit but lacks national importance under Dhanasar's first prong. Petitioner failed to demonstrate specific methodologies, unique advances, or prospective impact beyond his employer. Appeal dismissed without reaching remaining Dhanasar prongs.

Legal consultant with advanced degree sought national interest waiver for consulting work supporting U.S. small and medium enterprises in internationalization. AAO found endeavor has substantial merit but lacks national importance; modest job creation projections insufficient to demonstrate prospective impact at national level. Appeal dismissed.

Legal services provider sought NIW as self-petitioner under EB-2 advanced degree category. AAO dismissed appeal finding petitioner lacks five years progressive post-baccalaureate experience in specialty and failed to provide required academic equivalency evaluations, making underlying EB-2 eligibility impossible to establish.

Senior project manager seeking EB-2 exceptional ability and national interest waiver. Petitioner claimed six regulatory criteria but AAO found only two met. AAO withdrew Director's finding on one criterion, leaving only two criteria satisfied. Dismissed because petitioner failed to meet the three-criterion threshold for exceptional ability, disqualifying him from NIW consideration.