The new Institute for Global Development (NDIGD) at the University of Notre Dame—in collaboration with the Gigot Ce
nter for Entrepreneurial Studies and Law School faculty worked with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to develop a business model for documented migrant agricultural workers. Notre Dame assisted in conducting a market assessment of the short-to-medium term demand by U.S. employers for H-2A agricultural guest workers, in several geographic areas. They developed a business plan to scale up organizational service, build capacity in personnel, technical skills training, organizational structure, and financial forecasts. In addition, Notre Dame is conducting an assessment of a franchising plan to replicate the business model in other Mexican states. The new business model will help provide workers with many needed services, including: training, placement services with screened employers, worker rights training, support centers for separated families, family reunification, financial literacy, safe travel arrangements, and worksite follow-up to enhance human dignity. The project was funded by CRS through the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.