Starting a Business in the U.S.? Plan for Disruptions Without Breaking the Bank

Starting a business in a new country is an exciting yet challenging journey. Many immigrants move to the U.S. with a dream of financial independence, bringing valuable skills, experience, and innovative business ideas. Whether you are launching a new venture or transferring your existing business from your home country, one crucial factor you might not have considered is disaster recovery and business continuity planning.

It’s easy to focus solely on growth, customer acquisition, and adapting to a new market, especially when working with limited funds. However, unexpected disruptions—whether from natural disasters, economic downturns or cyber threats—can jeopardize all the hard work you put into your business. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to build a strong business continuity strategy.

Why Is Business Continuity Important for Immigrant Entrepreneurs?

Many immigrant business owners operate on thin margins, making them particularly vulnerable to disruptions. Unlike large corporations that can recover quickly from setbacks, small businesses—especially those run by newcomers—often struggle to bounce back. A well-thought-out business continuity plan can be the difference between surviving a crisis and shutting down.

Here are some common risks immigrant entrepreneurs face in the U.S.:

• Unfamiliarity with local risks: You may not know the frequency of hurricanes in Florida, earthquakes in California or blizzards in the Northeast.
• Limited financial cushion: Many newcomers start their businesses with personal savings, making unexpected losses harder to absorb.
• Cybersecurity threats: Small businesses are frequent targets of cyberattacks, especially if unfamiliar with U.S. digital security standards.
• Regulatory challenges: Navigating federal, state and local business laws can be overwhelming, and mistakes can lead to fines or business interruptions.

With these risks in mind, here’s how you can prepare your business for disruptions without breaking the bank:

• Identify critical operations. Pinpoint the essential functions that keep your business running, such as customer service, supply chain and financial transactions. Prioritize protecting these first.
• Create a basic backup plan. Use free or low-cost cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) to store important documents, customer data and financial records. In the event of a computer failure or cyberattack, your information will be safe.
• Develop a communication strategy. If an emergency disrupts your business, how will you communicate with employees, suppliers and customers? Keep an updated contact list and use free tools like WhatsApp, Slack or Google Voice for instant updates.
• Build a simple emergency fund. Even if money is tight, setting aside a small amount each month can create a safety net. Having even $500 to $1,000 saved can help cover unexpected costs.
• Have alternative work arrangements. If your store or office becomes inaccessible due to a disaster, have a backup plan. Can you work from home? Can you operate remotely? Identify temporary solutions in advance.
• Leverage free training and resources. The U.S. Small Business Administration and FEMA offer free online courses and guides on disaster preparedness for small businesses. Take advantage of these valuable resources.
• Get affordable business insurance. Many small business owners skip insurance to cut costs, but a single lawsuit, natural disaster or cyberattack can be devastating. Look for budget-friendly policies that cover key risks, such as property damage, cyber threats and liability.
• Establish key partnerships. Connect with local vendors, business networks and community groups. Strong relationships can help you get support during difficult times. For example, partnering with a neighboring business might allow you to share resources during an emergency.
• Regularly review and update your plan. Business risks evolve, so it’s essential to review and update your continuity plan every few months. Conduct small tests to ensure your strategy is effective.

As an immigrant entrepreneur, you’ve already taken a bold step by starting or relocating your business in the U.S. While financial challenges are real, preparing for potential disruptions is just as crucial as securing funding or gaining customers. A well-planned business continuity strategy doesn’t require a big budget—just smart decision-making and proactive planning.

By implementing these simple yet effective steps, you can protect your business, safeguard your income and secure your future in your new home country. Success isn’t just about growing a business; it’s about making sure it can withstand the unexpected.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Juliana Ardila

Juliana Ardila is a senior corporate affairs specialist with extensive experience in business continuity planning, disaster recovery, corporate communications, and risk management. With an MBA from Southeastern University and a postgraduate degree in negotiation from Universidad de Los Andes, she has built a strong career helping businesses navigate challenges and strengthen resilience.

As an advocate for immigrant entrepreneurs, Ardila is passionate about guiding small business owners who are starting or relocating their businesses in the U.S. She shares practical, cost-effective strategies to help them implement business continuity and disaster recovery plans, ensuring long-term sustainability even on a tight budget.

Currently based in Lakeland, Fla., she works at SunPower Contractors Inc., where she plays a key role in internal communications, talent management and business resilience planning. Through her writing and consulting, Ardila aims to empower entrepreneurs to build strong, adaptable businesses that can withstand disruptions and thrive in new markets.