Despite their stigma, foreign-born populations are helping the economy of U.S. cities. Welcoming America is a national network of organizations that preach the economic upside of immigration and in this way attract immigrants to certain cities and improve their experience.

Cities along the USA's rust belt, such as Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Detroit, have been encouraging immigrants to settle in their cities through various organization as a way to combat their population decline. The influx of immigrants not only increases the population, but spurs innovation, new businesses, and the creation of new jobs.

In the aftermath of an election "consumed with anti-immigration rhetoric," many of the same states that helped put Trump in the White House are not just home to growing numbers of immigrants and refugees, but many are actively seeking to naturalize these populations, as they play a significant role in bolstering economic growth. The Cities for Citizenship initiative is helping local governments to make the naturalization process more transparent and accessible for immigrant communities across the midwest.

Immigrants are increasingly settling in the United States, but their cultural adjustments present economic and social challenges. Different states have started welcoming initiatives to aid in foreigners in their transition. Welcoming Tennessee has organized community gatherings and public talks, and has publicized how immigrants can contribute to their new neighborhoods.

In Utica, a city in Upstate New York, the community is welcoming refugees as a tool to revitalize the post industrial economy. One in four residents is a refugee and each is integrated in the local community.