External enablers and entrepreneurial ecosystems: The brokering role of the anchor tenant in capacitating grassroots ecopreneurs

Abstract

AbstractResearch SummaryWe study how environmental enablers, specifically disruptive ecological shifts, and subsequent regulatory activity, led to the formation of a local ecopreneur ecosystem in Kenya and how this process was facilitated by the brokerage role of an international NGO. Drawing from the entrepreneurial ecosystem literature, and using a strategic network perspective to conceptually map salient interorganizational ties, multilevel engagement, and resource generation, we utilize qualitative grounded theory analysis to argue that environmental changes have catalyzed the regulatory change towards the formation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem for low‐resourced ecopreneurs. This process is facilitated through ecosystem brokering through an anchor tenant that accelerates knowledge, resources, and viable exchanges to advance venture sustainability.Managerial SummaryOur study unpacks how regulatory responses to environmental shifts enable the systemic development of venture creation. We explore how environmental changes, first in the natural environment, and subsequently, the regulatory environment—influence ecosystem emergence for entrepreneurial activity. We present three dimensions of regulatory enablement that shift conditions to favor venture building. Problem framing by the regulatory sector signals potential opportunities for entrepreneurs for value creation. Prioritization of this problem, emphasized in the government's regulation, sets new agendas and implies that new rules and resources would be allocated towards such opportunities. New rules also reconfigure boundaries to invite new actors and interactions into the discourse on environmental preservation in Kenya.