A business analyst sought EB-2 NIW to establish an AI cybersecurity business as CEO and software developer. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the proposed endeavor has substantial merit but lacks demonstrated national importance; alignment with government cybersecurity priorities does not establish the specific endeavor's national significance.

Cybersecurity professional sought EB-2 NIW for proposed work developing advanced payment security and fraud detection systems. AAO found substantial merit but concluded endeavor lacked national importance; work would not extend beyond prospective employers or customers to impact field broadly or produce substantial economic benefits.

An aircraft technician seeks EB-2 NIW based on exceptional ability and national interest waiver. AAO found the proposed endeavor has substantial merit but lacks national importance. Although the petitioner cited aviation safety and training programs, he did not demonstrate how his specific work or training would produce broad impacts or substantial economic effects at national scale.

Chemical engineering graduate student seeks NIW for research designing materials for PFAS water purification. AAO found first prong met but rejected second prong, concluding citations and publications alone insufficient to show field influence and well-positioning.