Open creative labs as functional infrastructure for entrepreneurial ecosystems: Using sequence analysis to explore tempo-spatial trajectories of startups in Berlin

Abstract

• Open creative labs are explored as functional infrastructure to entrepreneurial ecosystems. • Combines rich tempo-spatial data from corporate registers with qualitative data. • Sequence analysis is a used to benchmark the functions of open creative labs in entrepreneurial ecosystems. • Coworking spaces and incubators help startups transition between stages. • Seed accelerators facilitate connections between regional ecosystems through inter-ecosystem ties. By analyzing the tempo-spatial trajectories of startups, this paper proposes a new method to benchmark functions in entrepreneurial ecosystems based on longitudinal data. To demonstrate this novel method, a regional case study of the ecosystem infrastructure in Berlin is considered, for which tempo-spatial trajectories of startups are analyzed with quantitative sequence methods. It is explored empirically how open creative labs such as co-working spaces or seed accelerators supply core functions within entrepreneurial ecosystems based on the aspects of regional integration and trans-local connection. Open creative labs do not only provide important resources for startups and entrepreneurs but also have systemic functions within entrepreneurial ecosystems. Namely, they provide conditions under which critical links within regional entrepreneurial ecosystems can be formed and they facilitate inter-ecosystem ties between regions.