Washington, D.C. — Invest in the USA (IIUSA), the national trade association representing the EB-5 Regional Center Program, today released a comprehensive economic impact report detailing the program’s contributions to the U.S. economy from 2016 to 2019. The report, developed independently by researchers and economists at Fourth Economy, shows the EB-5 program generated $75.2 billion in private investment, created 1.7 million American jobs, contributed $184 billion to GDP, and raised $14.5 billion in tax revenues from 2016 to 2019 alone — all at no cost to U.S. taxpayers. The EB-5 program’s impact was felt nationwide, with states like California, New York, Texas, and Florida seeing billions in investments and hundreds of thousands of jobs created.
These findings come at a time of renewed attention to investment-based immigration, following President Donald Trump and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick’s proposal to create a new “Gold Card” visa for foreign investors. IIUSA has applauded the Trump Administration’s bold vision for the United States’ investment-based immigration system, and believes the EB-5 program is a proven, complementary solution that should remain central to any investment immigration policy.
Key Highlights from the Report:
- $75 billion in total project investment generated from 2016 to 2019
- 7 million U.S. jobs created or supported during that period
- $184 billion added to U.S. GDP
- $14.5 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenues
- Average wage of $74,000 for EB-5-supported jobs—48% higher than national private sector average
Additionally, data analysis shows that each EB-5 investor created 45 American jobs, and that every $500,000 invested generated an additional $1.6 million in private capital beyond the required investment, demonstrating the program’s powerful multiplier effect.
“This report shows EB-5’s tremendous impact and that it has been quietly driving economic growth in communities across America for decades,” said Aaron Grau, Executive Director of IIUSA. “EB-5 is a job-creating, revenue-generating engine for the U.S. economy. As policymakers consider new ideas like the Gold Card, there is an opportunity to build on the proven success of EB-5—not sideline it.”
“The EB-5 program is a win-win. It brings in vital foreign investment, creates jobs for American workers, and fuels economic growth – all without burdening taxpayers,” said Dr. Jerry Paytas, Lead Author of the report. “These economic impacts aren’t just statistics; they represent real opportunities and prosperity for American workers and communities. EB-5’s impact spans various sectors, from construction and accommodation to transportation and healthcare, demonstrating its broad economic reach.”
To read the full report and explore interactive state- and district-level data, visit: www.iiusa.org/eb5impact
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About IIUSA:
Invest In the USA (IIUSA) is the national membership-based 501(c)(6) not-for-profit trade association for the EB-5 Regional Center Program. IIUSA advocates for policies that maximize the economic and job creation benefits of the EB-5 Program, providing education, resources, and networking opportunities to its members and stakeholders.
About Fourth Economy
Fourth Economy Consulting offers services that advance economic strategy, resilience, and equity. We specialize in helping public and private sector clients take meaningful action to create innovative, equitable, and sustainable outcomes. We aim to create more prosperous and equitable communities and organizations by working in partnership with leaders in government, business, and the community.
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