Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research Articles

Cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem in an underserved area: The story of one university’s engagement

Research supports the role of entrepreneurship in economic development, but it is rarely the efforts of the sole entrepreneur that effect success, rather the interplay of several elements in an entrepreneurial ecosystem. The term ecosystem has come to mean the connection and interactions between cultural contexts, social networks, resource providers, and economic policies that create an environment that either supports or hinders entrepreneurial growth, ultimately impacting overall wellbeing and quality of life. There has been an increasing call for universities and in particular, business schools to consider how they can positively impact their communities. This paper reviews the elements of entrepreneurial ecosystems, outlines challenges in underserved communities, and shares the experience of one school in making an impact to date through its outreach activities.

Enabling university and regional conditions to create a thriving entrepreneurship ecosystem

ABSTRACT Can higher education institutions (HEIs) create conditions for a thriving entrepreneur ecosystem? This study analyzed HEIs’ innovation output and measured university leader (UL) perceptions and attitudes toward innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems (EE) by examining medium-sized HEIs with $200 to $300 M in research expenditures located in cities with a population of 250,000 to 500,000 to determine potential gaps in developing entrepreneurs and spurring start-up opportunity. A mixed-method design investigated HEIs’ innovation by building on existing frameworks to identify common attributes of an EE. Given the complexity, challenges, and underdeveloped literature associated with EEs, this article tested a proposed framework for ULs, scholars, practitioners, and policy makers to inform decisions for increased innovation output and start-up creation. The results provide practical recommendations on how leaders can create conditions to spur continued innovation and entrepreneur opportunity for organic start-up growth and economic development.

Digital entrepreneurship landscapes in developing Asia: insights from the Global Index of Digital Entrepreneurship Systems

PurposeDigitalization is changing the way entrepreneurs pursue opportunities. We have elaborated a conceptual framework to gain a better understanding of digital entrepreneurship. Using this framework, we have developed the Global Index of Digital Entrepreneurship Systems (GIDES), an analytical tool designed to measure and comprehend the impact of digitalization on entrepreneurship. This study aims to answer the research question of what specific bottlenecks are hindering the performance of digital entrepreneurial systems in the countries under investigation, with a particular focus on developing Asian economies.Design/methodology/approachGIDES is a composite indicator that evaluates the performance of digital entrepreneurial systems on a national scale. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship or most entrepreneurial ecosystem measures, GIDES adopts a systemic approach using the Penalty for Bottleneck (PFB) algorithm to spot bottlenecks that potentially degrade overall system performance.FindingsGIDES assesses the digital entrepreneurship systems of 113 countries, with a specific focus on 21 developing Asian economies. Singapore is ranked first among developing Asian countries globally. However, most developing Asian economies have significant room for improvement. While developing Asia excels in terms of physical infrastructure, it needs to work on its culture and informal institutions.Originality/valueDigital transformation is not happening in isolation. Instead, it is closely linked to and happens within the context of entrepreneurship. The level of digitalization of the economy, described by digital framework conditions, impacts entrepreneurial activity through their influence on national-level general and systemic framework conditions. Thus, GIDES monitors all the general, structural and digital frameworks that support digital entrepreneurship. Consequently, it offers a deeper understanding of how digitalization impacts entrepreneurship.

The Business Angel, Being Both Skilled and Decent

In this review, we explore the scientific landscape regarding Business Angels (BAs), a person who decides to offer their skills to improve the community where they live, distinguishing the different ways in which it is possible to contribute. This systematic review starts with a precise definition of what a BA is in terms of goals, strategies, and intervention area, which could be in social, environmental, technological, or educational areas, differentiating a BA from other kinds of stakeholders, revealing some precise influences due to different cultures or entrepreneurial ecosystems. We are talking about a person who is authoritative not only in terms of competence, knowledge, and skills but who is also noteworthy in terms of moral stature and accountability. We used three databases, SCOPUS, WOS, and EBSCO, using VosViewer to create cluster mapping to differentiate the various areas of research on this topic. We revealed three clusters, namely Business Angel, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, that clarify different facets of the construct. BA activities are very different from conventional strategies and protocols. BAs can operate in innovative areas, bring their own technologies to improve capabilities, handle projects related to sustainability and innovation, and even address social functions and social cohesion.

Exploring female entrepreneurship experience of Ireland’s business ecosystem: implications for business support

PurposeThis paper investigates the motivations and challenges of women entrepreneurs in Ireland, assessing the role of policies and Enterprise Ireland (EI) support for women-led companies and high potential start-ups (HPSUs). It employs the gendered theory of entrepreneurship and opportunity recognition theory to analyse the enablers and obstacles to women’s entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of EI’s support, aiming to suggest improvements.Design/methodology/approachGrounded in a feminist epistemology and employing a mixed-methods approach, a targeted survey explores motivations, barriers and supports the needs of female entrepreneurs in Ireland, offering a comprehensive gender perspective evaluation for policy enhancement.FindingsFindings note a shift in Irish women’s entrepreneurship motivations and outlines major hurdles like limited funding and work–life balance issues. It recommends policy enhancements in data collection, website usability, financial guidance and childcare support.Practical implicationsThis paper aims to highlight the impact of gender-specific factors on entrepreneurship, the study highlights the importance of ongoing data collection and gender comparative analyses. It advocates for women mentoring networks and improved financial support to build a more inclusive entrepreneurial environment in Ireland, with potential global implications.Originality/valueThis study is unique for its in-depth exploration into Irish female entrepreneurship challenges, this study proposes actionable strategies with local and global relevance. Advocating for caregiving support integration and women’s increased involvement in tech, it offers a blueprint for fostering female entrepreneurship. It contributes to global discussions on creating supportive, equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems, serving as a valuable resource for advancing gender inclusivity and equity in entrepreneurship worldwide. It identifies scope for integration of a feminist epistemology in policy development.

Product Commercialisation Training for Tenants Widyatama Business Incubator (WIBI)

This study examines the pivotal role of the Widyatama Business Incubator (WIBI) in supporting MSMEs and students in enhancing their businesses through essential knowledge and training programs. WIBI's Community Partnership Programme offers training in product commercialization, HR development, SNI certification, K3L compliance, and IPR management by addressing human resource management, business licensing, and technology optimization challenges. The six-month program encompasses site inspections, coordination, training, guidance, and evaluation, enabling WIBI to standardize tenant products, improve HR quality, and ensure compliance with national standards. The program's success in facilitating the growth and success of startup ventures demonstrates the significant contribution that WIBI makes to nurturing technology-based entrepreneurship and fostering innovation within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Igniting the Flames of Entrepreneurial Intentions: Unravelling the Dynamics of Perceived Business Feasibility, Self-perceived Altruism, Innovativeness and Uncertainty Among University Students

The study seeks to elucidate the enablers shaping students’ entrepreneurial intentions across India’s top five central universities. The study evaluated the entrepreneurial intentions of 730 university students utilizing structural equation modelling and augmenting the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), the entrepreneurial event model (EEM) and the social entrepreneurship theory (SET). Mediation and moderation techniques facilitated the examination of the direct and indirect linkages in the model. The findings reveal that perceived behavioural control (PBC), entrepreneurial attitude, subjective norms and self-perceived altruism magnify perceived business feasibility (PBF), significantly escalating students’ entrepreneurial intentions. PBC and PBF partially mediate the relationship among the underlying constructs. In addition, perceived innovativeness reinforces the association, while perceived uncertainty weakens the association between PBF and students’ entrepreneurial intentions. The study’s findings could help policymakers, social entrepreneurs, educational institutions, impact investors and global development agencies strengthen India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Self-perceived altruism and PBF have not received adequate attention in entrepreneurship. We attempt to embrace these constructs and crucial personality traits by extending the horizons of TPB, EEM and SET using a precise conceptual model.

Understanding The Role of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem on Productive Agricultural Entrepreneurship in Bogor Regency Through Structural Equation Modeling

Understanding The Role of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem on Productive Agricultural Entrepreneurship in Bogor Regency Through Structural Equation Modeling

Entrepreneurial ecosystem—Industrial parks as catalysts for strengthening ventures’ capability: Evidence from Ethiopian small manufacturing enterprises

Entrepreneurial ecosystem—Industrial parks as catalysts for strengthening ventures’ capability: Evidence from Ethiopian small manufacturing enterprises

An Exploratory Analysis of the Impact of Philanthropic Investments on the Development of University Innovation and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

An Exploratory Analysis of the Impact of Philanthropic Investments on the Development of University Innovation and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy In Entrepreneurial Intention: The Mediating Role Of Entrepreneurial Education

Unemployment, poverty and social inequality are big challenges for Indonesia in entering the free market and global competition.Today, individuals with a college degree experience stiff competition and difficulty in finding employment. Limited employment opportunities which have resulted in high unemployment rates have increased awareness of the importance of entrepreneurship. However, students' interest in entrepreneurship is still relatively low, causing them to hesitate to start a business because they are risk averse. Entrepreneurial intention, as the main predictor of entrepreneurial behavior, is important in understanding the entrepreneurial process. Factors influencing entrepreneurial intentions, especially entrepreneurial self-efficacy, have been widely researched.Apart from that, the role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in forming entrepreneurial intentions has also received attention.This research investigates the influence of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, entrepreneurial education, and individual factors such as entrepreneurial self-efficacy on entrepreneurial intentions among business students. The findings show that the entrepreneurial ecosystem has a positive effect on entrepreneurial intentions, in line with previous research in the Western context. In addition, entrepreneurial education and individual factors such as entrepreneurial self-efficacy mediate this relationship. Practical implications include the need for universities to support students in developing an entrepreneurial mindset and improve entrepreneurship education to foster creativity. Limitations, such as the focus on business students and the cross-sectional design, offer avenues for future research to explore broader populations and use longitudinal designs.

Legitimation strategies in emerging ecosystems: The case of advanced air mobility in Hamburg

This study provides insights into the legitimation process of emerging ecosystems and strengthens the conceptual link between entrepreneurial ecosystems and economic geography. It examines existing theoretical frameworks on legitimation strategies in emerging entrepreneurial ecosystems by inquiring into advanced air mobility (AAM), an area in which innovation faces exceptionally high legitimation challenges. The initial integration of drones for logistics and air taxis for passenger transport is surrounded by ambiguous future visions that range from high expectations to concerns about developing a mobility form that is neither sustainable nor socially acceptable and affordable. Empirically, this article offers an analytical understanding of the collective legitimation strategies within the emerging AAM ecosystem in Hamburg, Germany. For this, we used multiple qualitative methods and data sources: (1) a contextualizing network analysis, (2) semi-structured interviews with 22 representatives of tech and policy development, and (3) participatory observation from applied research projects. Based on the empirical material, we find that the current conceptual debate underestimates the public sector's role in ecosystem emergence and legitimation. As AAM depends on fundamental regulatory change, authorities and state-owned companies in the aviation sector have a decisive influence on the emergence of the ecosystem. Furthermore, our findings highlight how global discourses shape local practices and expectations. By combining cross-sectoral knowledge, entrepreneurs and policymakers aim to identify feasible use cases for their place-specific context. Nevertheless, the lack of a collective identity within the ecosystem, which comes largely from the uncertainties of AAM, poses numerous challenges for ecosystem participants addressing their liability of newness.

Building A Sharia Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Through Halal Value Chain for MSMEs

Independent entrepreneurs promise certain material benefits if the entrepreneur succeeds in running the business. Sharia business and economic patterns are still a big challenge and opportunity to be implemented in Indonesia. Creating a sharia-based entrepreneurial ecosystem is very important for MSME players to be aware of so that they can optimize the business they run according to Islamic law and God's provisions. This halal value chain is a sharia economic sector that plays an important role in economic progress in Indonesia. However, for Indonesia, halal is an economic potential that has not been exploited optimally. One thing that supports building a sharia entrepreneurial ecosystem and is able to increase sales value is by carrying out halal certification on the products it makes. The Community-Based Empowerment Partner in this activity is UMKM Wijayakusuma Sejati assisted by Jatisawit Village Bumiayu Brebes. The aim of this service is (1) to provide partner knowledge in creating a sharia-based entrepreneurial ecosystem and mentality, (2) to provide production and marketing knowledge, (3) to provide business capital management competence, (4) to provide knowledge about production and marketing, management competence business capital, bookkeeping and preparation of financial reports, and (5) facilitating halal certification for Wijayakusuma Sejati MSME products. This training is needed for traders to create a sharia entrepreneurial mentality and halal certification based on the halal value chain so they are able to manage their business well, create a brand image for their products, and increase sales significantly.

Women-Led Social Entrepreneurship

This study uses a phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of 30 women leaders in Peruvian social entrepreneurship. Through in-depth interviews analyzed using Moustakas's (1994) methodology, the research proposes a framework for understanding the initiation and development of women-led social enterprises, considering individual, social, cultural, and institutional factors. It also examines the impact of these ventures on the leaders and society, as well as the resources utilized. The findings offer insights for policymakers aiming to support entrepreneurial ecosystems. This study is unique in its focus on Peru, a country with the highest women labor force participation in Latin America and strong entrepreneurial activity.

ADHD Behavior and Entrepreneurial Behavior: The Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Intention

The fundamental objective of this research is to study the relationship between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) behavior and entrepreneurial behavior in Tunisian students. Based on the theory of person-environment adjustment (P-E), the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the analysis of data collected from 267 Tunisian students using a self-administered online questionnaire, the results of the present study showed no relationship between ADHD behavior and entrepreneurial action. However, entrepreneurial intention plays a mediating role in this relationship. These results constitute a theoretical contribution to the entrepreneurial field. Similarly, the results of the current study lend further support to the person-environment “P-E” theory, which posits that the functionality of a component of ADHD behavior depends on its fit with the environment. In particular, the uncertain and autonomous entrepreneurial environment could be an attractive career choice for people who display hyperactive/impulsive behavior. As for the theory of planned behavior “TPB,” the results of this study also show that intention is a fundamental antecedent of entrepreneurial behavior. This research has practical implications. Its results can be used by stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem (teachers, incubators, career coaches,… etc.) to detect future entrepreneurs and absorb the unemployment of Tunisian university graduates.

Entrepreneurial potential in digital transformation: scale development using item response theory

PurposeThis study aims to develop a scale using item response theory (IRT) to assess the entrepreneurial potential for digital transformation in Brazilian companies.Design/methodology/approachIRT was used to develop a scale for entrepreneurial potential in digital transformation. This scale was constructed from a questionnaire, covering the domains: (1) data-driven culture, (2) openness to knowledge and adaptation to change, (3) connectivity and (4) creativity and innovation. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 216 entrepreneurs from small business enterprise (SBE) and startups in Brazil.FindingsA questionnaire was developed and validated to assess the latent trait of entrepreneurial potential within the context of digital transformation. Additionally, a three-level scale of entrepreneurial potential was established: low (level I), intermediate (level II) and high (level III). The interpretation of this scale provides valuable information on which domains, such as data-driven culture, innovation, among others, can be enhanced to improve the potential of entrepreneur for digital transformation.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample was limited to small Brazilian companies and startups, which may restrict the applicability of the results to other business or geographic contexts. Additionally, the items evaluated in the scale may not fully capture all nuances of entrepreneurial potential for digital transformation. Future research should consider including new items that cover a broader range of entrepreneurial characteristics.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study have significant practical implications for the Brazilian entrepreneurial ecosystem, the entrepreneurs themselves, public policy makers and entrepreneurship support institutions. These results can guide digital transformation strategies, adjustments in public policies and investments, thereby promoting economic development and innovation in the country.Originality/valueThis study stands out for using IRT as a robust methodology to develop an interpretative scale to assess entrepreneurial potential in the digital transformation era. By focusing on Brazilian SBEs and startups, the study offers an original contribution on how these companies are handling the challenges of digitalization and identifying areas for improvement to further promote digital transformation among entrepreneurs.

Perspectives on Necessity-Driven Immigrant Entrepreneurship: Interactions with Entrepreneurial Ecosystems through the Lens of Dynamic Capabilities

This paper explores the interaction between immigrant small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the entrepreneurial ecosystems of their home and host countries. These SMEs, often established out of necessity due to economic hardship or unemployment, contrast with opportunity-driven ventures that seek to exploit new market prospects. Employing a dynamic capabilities framework, the study investigates how immigrant SMEs identify and mobilize critical resources in unstable environments, and how these resources are dynamically adapted and transformed to meet organizational objectives while responding to ecosystem changes, ultimately cultivating competitive advantages. Interviews were conducted with 25 immigrant entrepreneurs from eight countries, and the interviews took place within their business environments, with native speakers of the interviewees′ home countries present to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The findings highlight that immigrant entrepreneurs effectively leverage resources from both home and host country ecosystems, with human capital being the most essential asset. Additionally, the role of immigrants′ social networks is emphasized as a crucial mechanism for resource acquisition. This study further illustrates the positive contributions of immigrant enterprises to entrepreneurial ecosystems, revealing a co-evolutionary relationship whereby the businesses and ecosystems both mutually evolve. This co-evolution strengthens the resilience and sustainability of immigrant ventures, significantly enhancing their long-term success.

NETWORK FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONALS: EXPLORING VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AS A POSSIBLE PATH

This chapter examines the intersection of vocational education and network entrepreneurship, focusing on how the “S” System in Brazil facilitates connections between students and the job market, with particular emphasis on the role of the National Commercial Apprenticeship Service (Senac). The aim is to investigate how vocational education can contribute to building entrepreneurial networks and enhance connectivity between students and the market. The methodology adopted involves an exploratory approach, focusing on literature research and case analysis, aimed at understanding the strategies and programs implemented by the institution under study. Regarding the theoretical background: Castells (2022); Law No. 9,841/1999, which establishes the Microenterprise and Small Business Statute and provides for differentiated, simplified, and favored legal treatment; Arruda (2017), among others. As discussed more comprehensively in the final considerations, we can highlight the significant contribution of Vocational Education not only in developing relevant skills for individuals both personally and professionally, but also in promoting social inclusion and facilitating students' access to professional networks and business opportunities. This underscores the vital role of public policies and educational initiatives focused on entrepreneurship as a strengthening agent within the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Resilience and Sustainability of Muslim Entrepreneurs of Gen Z In Era 5.0: A Conceptual Approach

This study investigates how digital innovation and green marketing contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Muslim Generation Z entrepreneurship. Gen Z, known for its strong affinity for technology, utilizes digital platforms such as social media and e-commerce to develop businesses with relatively low capital, making it an ideal environment for entrepreneurial growth. For Muslim Gen Z entrepreneurs, integrating Islamic values like honesty, social responsibility, and business ethics into their ventures is essential for business practices. The study aims to explore the impact of digital entrepreneurship and green marketing on the resilience of Muslim Gen Z entrepreneurs and identify the factors influencing their sustainability. The research employs a conceptual approach, analyzing secondary data and existing literature on digital entrepreneurship, green marketing, and Islamic business ethics. Findings indicate that leveraging digital technology enhances the ability of Muslim Gen Z entrepreneurs to adapt to market changes, increase competitiveness, and operate sustainably. Green marketing, in particular, aligns with Islamic principles of environmental responsibility, attracting environmentally conscious consumers and building stronger brand loyalty. This study highlights how these entrepreneurs can integrate ethical practices with innovative strategies to build resilient and sustainable businesses in the digital era. The research underscores the need for further empirical studies to examine the practical application of Islamic values and digital innovation across various regions and how these factors interact with local entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Is home where the heart is? Investigating the relationship between hometown and entrepreneurship

ABSTRACT The importance of home and hometown for entrepreneurs has significant implications for entrepreneurial identities, venture success, and broader contextual dynamics. Traditionally, the concept of home in entrepreneurship literature is viewed instrumentally, largely focusing on the unit of dwelling (i.e. premises/house/apartment), the implications of location choices, and their effects on performance. We employ a mobilities lens, broadening the concept of home to the city/town scale of ‘hometown’, offering a more holistic understanding of what it means for entrepreneurs from various origins and returns. Our qualitative case study in Norwich, UK, provides nuanced theoretical advancements into understanding home beyond materiality and mere location, highlighting how this is inextricably linked to dynamic renewal within peripheral urban places and different migration pathways (i.e. local, migrant, returnee). Our contributions are threefold: 1) we reveal that varying degrees of localness complicate the local versus non-local binary, impacting entrepreneurial dynamics; 2) our relational model of hometown entrepreneurship challenges the rigid leave-learn-return narrative, demonstrating return migration as a complex detach-experience-revalue socio-cultural reconnection which feeds into the local entrepreneurial ecosystem; 3) exploring the interactions of diverse actors in peripheral urban hometowns provides insights into regional development moving us beyond instrumental views in existing literature.