A financial technologies researcher with a PhD sought NIW as self-petitioner to start a fintech startup. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the proposed endeavor lacked national importance despite showing substantial merit; benefits were confined to specific employers and clients rather than the field broadly.

Entrepreneur in financial management sought EB-2 advanced degree classification with national interest waiver. Director denied petition on national importance grounds. AAO affirmed, finding proposed endeavor providing financial consulting to small businesses did not demonstrate national importance; no specific evidence of job creation, broader field impact, or substantial economic effects required by Dhanasar.

Entrepreneur in real estate services sought EB-2 exceptional ability with national interest waiver. AAO held proposed endeavor lacked national importance; petitioner did not demonstrate prospective impact beyond his company or significant potential to employ workers or provide substantial positive economic effects nationally.

An exercise physiologist and entrepreneur sought EB-2 classification and national interest waiver for work in exercise physiology and business. The AAO affirmed the service center's denial because the petitioner failed to demonstrate his proposed endeavor had national importance beyond his individual clients and lacked evidence of substantial economic impact.