Aligning entrepreneurial universities' HEInnovate dimensions with entrepreneurs' needs: A graduate entrepreneur-centered perspective

Abstract

PurposeEntrepreneurial universities can bridge innovation and the entrepreneurial ecosystems to emerge as knowledge providers and capability aggregators that catalyse regional and national economic and social development. Given their prominent role in society, this study seeks to understand how entrepreneurial teaching and learning, preparing and supporting entrepreneurs, and digital transformation and capabilities (HEInnovate dimensions) influence the development of graduates' entrepreneurial activities. Design/methodology/approachBased on 13 interviews with graduate entrepreneurs, this study reveals the multiple aspects involved in the university entrepreneurial structures approached by the dimension of the HEInnovate scale. FindingsThe findings convey how entrepreneurial graduates are aware of the need for university-industry collaboration and the dependence on government policy and funding.The findings generate implications. Originality/valueThis study contributes to theory and practice as well as a framework illustrating the articulation among formulated research propositions and underlining their positioning within the mutual engagement of Triple Helix dynamics.