An urban and regional planning researcher sought EB-2 classification with a national interest waiver. The AAO found the proposed endeavor had substantial merit but lacked national importance, as it did not demonstrate novel innovation or broader field-wide impact comparable to Dhanasar examples. The first NIW prong failed, and remaining prongs were not reached; the appeal was dismissed.

Nurse with advanced degree initially proposing primary care work in underserved Florida areas, later proposing occupational health consulting company. AAO held both endeavors lack national importance under Dhanasar; healthcare field importance alone insufficient for specific endeavor-level impact.

Research scientist seeking EB-2 national interest waiver claimed advanced degree and waiver eligibility under Dhanasar framework. AAO dismissed appeal, affirming SCOPS' finding that petitioner failed first prong: proposed connectomics research insufficiently described; lacks demonstration of substantial merit, national importance, or prospective impact.

An early childhood educator and behavioral counselor with master's degree sought EB-2 national interest waiver for consulting business training educators in underserved communities. The AAO dismissed, holding that the proposed endeavor lacks national importance; working in an important field, addressing labor shortages, or providing regional services does not establish prospective impact at a national level.