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How Armenian Entrepreneurs Built Successful Businesses in USA

Investor Visas PC

Updated: Oct 9, 2024



The United States has long been a land of opportunity for entrepreneurs from around the world. 


Armenian businesspeople, in particular, have made significant contributions to the U.S. economy by bringing with them strong cultural values of resilience, ingenuity, and a commitment to excellence. 


These values, often encapsulated in unique Armenian expressions and wisdom, have enabled them to build successful companies and enrich the American entrepreneurial landscape.


This article highlights the inspiring journeys of Armenian entrepreneurs who have established successful businesses in the United States through vision and determination.


Ara Mahdessian and Vahe Kuzoyan – Co-founders of ServiceTitan


Industry: Software and Technology  

Founded: 2012  

Headquarters: Glendale, California, USA


Story: Ara Mahdessian and Vahe Kuzoyan, both Armenian-American entrepreneurs, grew up in families deeply rooted in the trades.


Their fathers were immigrants who operated plumbing and electrical businesses, facing challenges in managing and growing their companies due to a lack of efficient software solutions tailored to their needs.


Recognizing this gap, Mahdessian and Kuzoyan founded ServiceTitan in 2012, a software platform designed specifically for home service businesses such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies.


The platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools for dispatching, scheduling, accounting, marketing, and customer relationship management, enabling businesses to streamline operations and enhance customer service.


Starting from a modest operation, ServiceTitan has experienced remarkable growth, becoming one of the leading software solutions in the home services industry.


The company has raised significant venture capital funding, achieving "unicorn" status with a valuation exceeding $1 billion. ServiceTitan now serves thousands of businesses across the United States and Canada, impacting the lives of countless entrepreneurs and their customers.


Cultural Influence:


Mahdessian and Kuzoyan's success reflects the Armenian values of "Ընտանեկան ժառանգություն" (Untanekan zharangut'yun), meaning "family heritage." Their desire to support their fathers' businesses underscores the importance of family bonds and honoring one's roots. The Armenian proverb "Միտքը վայելի է, սիրտը կայանի" ("When the mind is willing, the heart is ready") resonates with their determination to solve complex problems through innovation. Their commitment to empowering small businesses aligns with "Համայնքի զարգացում" (Hamaynki zargatsum), meaning "community development," highlighting the significance of contributing to the prosperity of the community.




Noubar Afeyan – Co-founder of Moderna and Founder of Flagship Pioneering



Industry: Biotechnology and Venture Capital  

Founded: Flagship Pioneering in 2000, Moderna in 2010  

Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA


Story: Born in Beirut, Lebanon, to Armenian parents, Noubar Afeyan moved to Canada and later the United States to pursue higher education.


With a Ph.D. in biochemical engineering from MIT, Afeyan has founded or co-founded numerous biotechnology companies.


In 2000, he established Flagship Pioneering, a venture capital firm creating and funding startups in groundbreaking technologies. Afeyan co-founded Moderna in 2010, focusing on mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. Moderna's rapid development of a COVID-19 vaccine showcased the potential of mRNA technology and highlighted Afeyan's impact on global health.


Cultural Influence:


Afeyan embodies "Բանու ճարտարապետություն" (Banu chartarapetutyun) or "the architecture of knowledge," emphasizing innovation. The proverb "Քարը քարին դնես, կամուրջ կդառնա" ("Place stone upon stone, and it becomes a bridge") symbolizes his persistent efforts to build transformative technologies. His dedication to improving human health reflects "Արարք եւ բարություն" (Arark yev barutyun), meaning "action and kindness."




Kirk Kerkorian – Business Magnate and Philanthropist



Industry: Investments, Aviation, and Hospitality  

Founded: Tracinda Corporation in 1976  

Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, USA


Story: Kirk Kerkorian, born to Armenian immigrant parents, left school early to support his family.


He became a pilot, leading to ventures in aviation and eventually significant investments in Las Vegas real estate. Kerkorian built the original MGM Grand Hotel and Casino and founded Tracinda Corporation, making impactful investments in various industries.


Known for his philanthropy, Kerkorian donated generously to Armenian causes and disaster relief efforts, reflecting his deep commitment to his heritage and humanitarian values.


Cultural Influence:


Kerkorian's life reflects "Անհատականություն" (Anhatakanutyun), meaning "individuality" or "self-reliance." The saying "Իմ հացը իմ քրտինքն է" ("My bread is my sweat") underscores his belief in hard work. His philanthropy aligns with "Սիրել մերձավորին" (Sirel merdzavorin), or "love thy neighbor."




Alexis Ohanian – Co-founder of Reddit and Initialized Capital



Industry: Internet and Venture Capital  

Founded: Reddit in 2005, Initialized Capital in 2011  

Headquarters: San Francisco, California, USA


Story: Alexis Ohanian, with Armenian heritage, co-founded Reddit, a leading social news platform. After selling Reddit, he co-founded Initialized Capital, investing in startups like Instacart and Coinbase. Ohanian advocates for internet freedom and engages in philanthropic efforts supporting Armenia.


Cultural Influence:


Ohanian's entrepreneurship reflects "Նորարարություն" (Norararutyun) or "innovation." The expression "Գիտելիքը ուժ է" ("Knowledge is power") resonates with his focus on empowerment through technology. His community service aligns with "Համայնքի ծառայություն" (Hamaynki tsarayutyun).



The Cultural Edge: Armenian Values in Business Success


Armenian entrepreneurs have profoundly impacted various American industries by integrating their cultural values:


  •  "Ընտանեկան ժառանգություն" (Untanekan zharangut'yun) – Family Heritage: Emphasizing family bonds and honoring one's roots fosters a strong foundation for business endeavors.

  •  "Նորարարություն" (Norararut'yun) – Innovation: Embracing creativity leads to groundbreaking solutions and competitive advantages.

  •  "Համառություն" (Hamarrutyun) – Tenacity: Persistence ensures resilience and the ability to overcome challenges.

  •  "Համայնքի զարգացում" (Hamaynki zargatsum) – Community Development: Contributing to the prosperity of the community enhances social impact and business reputation.

  •  "Արարք եւ բարություն" (Arark yev barut'yun) – Action and Kindness: Combining efforts with compassion enriches business practices and fosters goodwill.

  •  "Ստեղծագործական ոգի" (Steghtsoghkakan voghi) – Creative Spirit: Valuing artistry and innovation enhances problem-solving and product development.


These principles resonate with American consumers and industries that value innovation, integrity, and social responsibility. 


By integrating Armenian cultural values into their business models, these entrepreneurs have built loyal customer bases and made significant impacts in their fields.


Conclusion


The success stories of Armenian entrepreneurs in the United States highlight the power of vision, hard work, and cultural values.


By leveraging their heritage and adapting to the American market, they have built companies that achieve financial success while enriching the nation's cultural tapestry.


For aspiring entrepreneurs, these examples demonstrate that deeply held values and a commitment to excellence can lead to remarkable achievements.


The journeys of Ara Mahdessian, Vahe Kuzoyan, Noubar Afeyan, Kirk Kerkorian, and Alexis Ohanian serve as inspiration for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact through business.


Whether revolutionizing industries with innovation, advancing technology and education, or contributing to community development, these Armenian businesspeople show that with the right blend of cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, success is within reach.


If you're considering starting a business in the United States and navigating the complexities of immigration and business law, our firm is here to assist. We offer comprehensive legal support to help turn your vision into reality.


Book a free 1-hour free video consultation with an immigration attorney. 




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