Immigrants to Innovators Who are Redefining the American Dream
About 1.5 percent of the US population is Indian-American, and the community has significantly influenced business, culture, innovation, philanthropy and politics, bringing about positive change.
Indian Americans have emerged as one of the most significant immigrant communities in the United States. With 5.4 million members living in the US and making substantial contributions to various industries, they are boosting the country's economy and laying the foundation for future growth in business, culture, innovation and public service.
From establishing large corporations to significantly increasing the tax base, such as paying 5 to 6 percent of all income taxes, the value of which stands at USD 250 to 300 billion, the economic influence of the Indian diaspora in the US is astounding. CEOs of Indian descent lead 16 Fortune 500 companies, collectively generating nearly $1 trillion in revenue and employing 2.7 million Americans. While well-known for leading large enterprises, the impact that they are creating goes much beyond the realm of big business.
Co-founding 72 of 648 US unicorns, which employ over 55,000 people and have a valuation of USD 195 billion, shows how prevalent Indian Americans are in the startup industry as well. About 60 percent of US hotels are owned by Indian Americans, demonstrating their entrepreneurial drive even in smaller firms. This affects the hospitality sector.
The power of Indian Americans also has left a mark in research, academics and innovation. Subra Suresh and Navin Varadarajan's notable contributions have successfully transformed the healthcare sector globally. In academics, comprising 2.6 percent of the country's full-time academic workforce, there are over 22,000 faculty members of Indian descent working in American colleges and universities.
The Indian diaspora has profoundly impacted culture, influencing fields including food, wellness, festivals, cinema and fashion. The contributions are extensive, from popularizing wellness techniques like yoga and Ayurveda and bringing Indian cuisines into mainstream American dining to popularizing Indian festivals and making significant advancements in the literary field.
Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to positive change in India and the United States. Millions of people have been indirectly helped by Indian American charitable organizations, with one raising over 125 million USD and the other in health and livelihood initiatives, touching almost 1.5 million people across the United States and India, respectively.
Indian Americans are also conquering the democratic arena as senators, legislators and mayors. Over the last ten years, they have been increasingly active in the federal administration, holding over 150 prominent positions.
It can rightfully be said that a smaller community has solidified its position as a driving force for constructive social change in the United States.