Exploring the Role of Business Incubators to Sustainable Startups: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Business incubators play a crucial role in fostering the sustainability and growth of early-stage startups. They provide access, financial support, training, infrastructure, connections with investors, and more. However, many business incubators do not effectively maximize startup potential. This study aims to systematically review and analyze the key characteristics contributing to the role of business incubators in promoting sustainable startups. The study will follow the PRISMA statement (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and employ document analysis integrating multiple research designs, based on established standards. It will compile and analyze 68 articles from global sources, utilizing open-access articles and accessing primary databases such as Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus for article retrieval. Through content analysis, this study identified fifteen main categories that significantly impact startup businesses: (1) financial support, (2) business support and services, (3) networking support, (4) mentoring activities, (5) infrastructure, (6) human capital, (7) access to knowledge and information, (8) social values and environment, (9) marketing capabilities and support, (10) technology support, (11) entrepreneurship education (courses and curriculum), (12) programs, projects, and events, (13) research and development support, (14) government policy support, and (15) legitimacy involvement. The findings highlight five main aspects—financial, business, networking, mentoring, and infrastructure—as crucial for effective startup support and implementation. From an economic sociology perspective, these articles discuss the dynamic roles of business incubators, emphasizing urgent factors and essential designs for success in the face of future challenges.