On a recent flight home after IIUSA’s Southeast Asia Passport Series events, I found myself reflecting not only on the success of these gatherings but on the evolution and growing significance of the Passport Series itself—for the association, our members, and the global EB-5 community.
What began as our international events with the Global Banquet Series—single events which rotated among key markets—has grown into something far more strategic and impactful. While those early events brought hundreds together, the time commitment and relatively infrequency limited their effectiveness. Recognizing this, we reimagined our approach: targeted events in both emerging and established markets, designed for purpose-driven engagement.
This pivot enabled IIUSA to offer more frequent marketing opportunities to more members, while creating space for deeper, more meaningful conversations. We moved away from podium project promotions, instead offering dedicated networking sessions and curated exhibit placements—allowing regional centers to connect with potential partners more organically and effectively.
Crucially, the Passport Series has become a dynamic platform for EB-5 education. In new markets like Nigeria and Latin America, attendees gain foundational insights into EB-5 concepts and operations. In seasoned markets such as China, India and South Korea, discussions go deeper—examining visa retrogression, processing timelines, and the latest data from USCIS.
This year in Southeast Asia, we struck a strong balance between introductory education and advanced analysis. Panels even explored timely topics like the proposed Trump “Gold Card” and its potential implications for the EB-5 program.
The Series’ growing momentum has also had a tangible impact on IIUSA’s financial health. The events now play a central role in our annual budget, with 2024’s Passport Series generating nearly $1 million in non-dues revenue—making it our most financially successful initiative. These funds directly support IIUSA’s core priorities, from staffing to advocacy for long-term reauthorization and eliminating the visa derivative count.
But beyond the numbers, the Passport Series fosters something equally vital: industry camaraderie. Whether in Hong Kong or Hanoi, Lima or Lagos, these events bring together new and seasoned members alike—creating opportunities to collaborate, exchange insights, and build lasting professional relationships. In an industry as complex and evolving as EB-5, this kind of community-building is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
It has been three years since IIUSA began its Passport Series. With each iteration, we have adapted and incorporated new information for attendees keeping the events fresh and relevant. We will continue to do so and continue to enjoy the benefits the events bring whether its non-dues revenue, catching up with old friends, or creating new relationships. If you have never experienced IIUSA’s Passport Series, I hope you will consider doing so.
And if you have ideas, questions, markets you’d like us to consider, please do share your comments. As I reflect on the cities we’ve been to, the panel discussions we’ve had, and the relationships we’ve built, I’m proud of what the Passport Series has become – excited for what’s next.
Sincerely,
Aaron Grau
Executive Director
Invest in the USA (IIUSA)
WHAT MEMBERS ARE SAYING
“IIUSA membership has enhanced our credibility and visibility within the EB-5 community. Through its networking events and advocacy initiatives, we’ve built valuable partnerships and remained compliant with evolving policies. The research and educational resources provided by IIUSA have also helped us make more informed business decisions and serve our clients better.”
– Jacyln Do
Founder
Worldwide Path
“Attending the IIUSA Southeast Asia Passport Series events in Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Singapore was an incredibly valuable experience. Each stop offered thoughtful programming, strong engagement and the opportunity to meet with various top-tier regional partners such as local agents, private bankers, cross border planners. I appreciated the chance to represent Peachtree Group and our EB-5 platform and look forward to deepening the relationships started during the series.”
– Victor Espinosa
Vice President, Global Business Development
Peachtree Group
“I’m grateful to IIUSA for hosting such a well-organized and timely event in Hong Kong. It was a privilege to speak on the panel and contribute to meaningful discussions about current trends and opportunities shaping the EB-5 industry in today’s rapidly changing global environment.”
– Todd Jackson
Senior Advisor
Yingzhong & Company/ Yingzhong Law Offices
“As someone deeply involved in the EB-5 space across Latin America, I’ve seen firsthand the growing demand for credible, structured, and well-supported information about U.S. investment immigration. IIUSA’s Passport Series has played a pivotal role in bringing the EB-5 program to the forefront in key LATAM markets, from Bogotá to São Paulo and Curitiba and beyond.
These events have not only expanded the industry’s reach but also helped strengthen trust and transparency in regions where investors and advisors are eager for long-term, stable solutions. As Vice President for LATAM at EB5AN, I’ve had the privilege of engaging directly with hundreds of families, attorneys, and wealth advisors throughout the region. The presence and professionalism of IIUSA in these markets has amplified all of our efforts.”
– Mila de Olano
VP LATAM
EB5AN
“It was great to participate in the recent Southeast Asia IIUSA Passport Series events in Hong Kong, Singapore and Hanoi. American Life, Inc has sponsored the Passport Series events regularly over the last few years, giving us the opportunity to both speak on panels and exhibit at the event. We have leveraged these events to position American Life, and its leadership, as EB-5 industry experts and at the forefront of efforts to both extend and improve the EB-5 Regional Center program. Through the Passport Series we have met individuals and formed alliances that have resulted in productive agency relationships and new investors into American Life projects.
These three locations are countries that we wish to deepen our market penetration and increase awareness of American Life, and the Passport Series will help us accomplish that objective.”
– Darrell Sanders
VP, Investment Programs
American Life, Inc.
