Entrepreneur and financial markets professional sought NIW under EB-2 advanced degree as chief economist for digital currency exchange. AAO dismissed, finding the endeavor has substantial merit but fails the national importance element of Dhanasar's first prong, reserving analysis of remaining prongs.

Financial manager proposes self-funded fintech venture offering AI-driven financial guidance to economically distressed communities. Claimed national importance based on field value and target population impact. AAO affirmed denial: specific endeavor lacks demonstrated substantial economic impact, employment potential, or concrete implementation plan meeting national importance threshold.

An attorney sought EB-2 national interest waiver for international arbitration legal advisory work. The AAO found the proposed endeavor materially changed in response to RFE, lacked detailed initial description, and failed to demonstrate national importance beyond assisting individual clients despite evidence of ADR field merit. Appeal dismissed.

Advanced degree professional seeks NIW for business endeavor supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. Claimed alignment with U.S. government initiatives and economic benefits would establish national importance. AAO found vague assertions without specific details or probative evidence of broader industry impact; merely working in important field insufficient without demonstrating specific endeavor's national importance.