Entrepreneur with advanced degree seeking EB-2 NIW for sustainable agriculture business development. AAO affirmed denial because proposed endeavor lacks national importance despite substantial merit. Job creation and economic projections insufficient without supporting evidence of broader prospective impact.

A civil engineer sought NIW to operate a construction and sustainability consulting company. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding substantial merit but no national importance; claimed worker shortage and industry importance insufficient without evidence of this specific endeavor's projected economic impact or broader field implications.

Business and marketing professional seeking EB-2 classification with national interest waiver for marketing and business consulting firm. Qualified as advanced degree professional but failed first Dhanasar prong. AAO found firm would not employ substantial U.S. workers or create significant economic impact beyond serving own clientele.

A consultant sought EB-2 classification with a national interest waiver for a business providing marketing and digital services to disadvantaged small businesses. The AAO affirmed denial, finding the endeavor lacks national importance despite industry articles establishing merit; services benefit only immediate clients without broader implications for the field.