Research Information Summary

Research Personnel

Principal Investigator: Megan McIntyre (mmcintyre2@unc.edu)
Principal Investigator: Micah Hughes (micah.hughes@unc.edu)
Researcher Assistant: Alaa Hammouda (alaah@email.unc.edu)

Research Context

This research study serves to inform a larger project on minority entrepreneurship and business processes. The study is supported by a research grant awarded to the Center of Middle East and Islamic Studies (CMEIS) by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill College of Arts and Sciences. Please take the time to read the following information before participating in the research project. To participate in the research project, you will be asked to give your verbal consent. Confidentiality will be respected and subject to professional standards. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your participation, do not hesitate to contact the principal investigators of this study (see above contact information). We look forward to your valuable perspective and contribution.

Purpose of the Study

In recent years there has been increasing internal and external migration to the US South, however, studies have primarily focused on a limited number of states when considering people of Arab ancestry. This research study seeks to understand the unique factors that influence entrepreneurial activities and self-employment through the lens of vibrant Arab and Arab-American communities in North Carolina.

The research process will evaluate existing literature, collect data, and synthesize evidence in a monograph or written report that participants can request. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews that will be recorded, but if you prefer not to be recorded, the interview can still be conducted with the researcher taking written notes. The interview is expected to last 60 minutes.

Why Should You Participate? 

By participating in this study, you will be part of a UNC-based research project that has the potential to affect the lives of community members as well as local government agencies. Your contributions will have practical implications for the betterment of local processes and resource allocation. This research project will also serve to better inform and educate a new generation of students and practitioners in this field of study. Participants can request a write up of the findings once the project concludes.

Contact Us

Please do not hesitate to contact us (mmcintyre2@unc.edu) to learn more about the study and to inquire about participation. We look forward to your valuable perspective and contribution.

IRB Information

This research study follows the guidelines of the university’s Office of Human Research Ethics (OHRE) and has gained ethical clearance through the Institutional Review Board (IRB). If you have questions or concerns about your rights as a research subject, you may contact the UNC Institutional Review Board at 919-966-3113 or by email to IRB_subjects@unc.edu. IRB number: 24-0534.