Our primary goal for each refugee client we resettle is achieving self-sufficiency. Oftentimes, these individuals arrive to this country with many advanced skills, and even college or graduate-level degrees. Some may have managed their own small business back home before being forced to flee, or some may be interested in starting their first business now that they have an opportunity to do so. Whatever the case, we are consistently inspired by the hard work and dedication our clients show as they build a new life here in Madison. Accordingly, we do our best to support them in their entrepreneurial pursuits, as a successful business can provide a foundation and stability to a family for generations.

JSS can provide assistance with startup costs, equipment purchase, networking and community connections, and initial business investment. Additionally, we host craft markets year-round, featuring the wide variety of goods and crafts that our clients create. Make sure to follow us on social media or our website calendar to stay up to date for upcoming markets! Below are a few examples of some of the businesses we have supported in the past.

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Jewelry Sale - International Market
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Imad posing
Afghan Car Detailing Display
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Afghan Kabul Cuisine
Bakht Mohammad arrived in the United States with his family from Afghanistan in Fall 2021. A veteran, he aided the US military during the war, while also opening and running his own restaurant in Kabul. After arriving, JSS case workers worked with Bahkt to help launch his catering business, and he has already found great success, receiving coverage in Spectrum News, The Isthmus, and Cap Times. We have supported Bakht in purchasing new equipment, hosting pop-up events, connecting with resources such as FEED Kitchens, and receiving proper licensing for his delicious cuisine. Now, Bakht is looking at opening his own restaurant in Madison, continuing to build the business he started long ago in Kabul. Visit their website here: https://www.afghankabulcuisine.com/. Stay up to date on their events at their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Afghan-Kabul-Cuisine-100088160105541/ and click here to view an article written about Bakht!

Afghan Car Detailing
In September 2024, a group of Afghan clients opened a brick-and-mortar shop for their business Afghan Car Detailing. Opening a physical location is always a huge milestone for any business owner, so we made sure to attend their opening ceremony. JSS assisted with financial support for equipment and connecting the business owners with clients and training. They are open for business at 246 W. Main St., Sun Prairie, WI.

Salha Tailoring & Wedding Designs
Imad Salha, from Syria, has been a top-notch tailor and dressmaker for many years, so it was natural for him to set up shop once he relocated to Madison in 2023. Imad creates all of his designs from scratch, and doesn’t use any patterns or even sketching to create his dresses. As he puts it, the design is “all in my mind”. Imad also specializes in wedding party tailoring and alterations, and also does all kinds of alterations, on any sort of garments or fabric item. We are honored to help talented artisans like him share their amazing skills with the community. Visit his website here: SalhaTailoring.com