Entrepreneurship Theory Research Articles

LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT AS A CATALYST FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Objective and relevance. The purpose of this article is to study the role of local self-government in the development of social entrepreneurship in Ukraine, in particular in the context of decentralisation. In many countries, including Ukraine, local governments play an important role in stimulating the development of social entrepreneurship. In the context of decentralisation in Ukraine, local communities have been empowered to manage their resources, which opens up new opportunities to support businesses focused on the public good. This article explores how local self-government can become a catalyst for the development of social entrepreneurship, looking at both the opportunities and challenges of this process. As local communities gain more autonomy in managing their resources and addressing local issues, social entrepreneurship becomes a key tool for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges. This topic is highly relevant given the ongoing decentralisation reforms in Ukraine, the social and economic impact of the war, and the potential of social enterprises to contribute to sustainable community development. This study uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The authors reviewed the literature on social entrepreneurship theory and practice, as well as examples of successful social enterprises in Ukraine and abroad. Interviews with local authorities and social entrepreneurs were used to collect primary data. In addition, a comparative analysis of the legal and regulatory framework for social enterprises at the local level was conducted. This study shows that local governments can play a significant role in promoting social entrepreneurship through financial support, simplifying administrative procedures, and facilitating partnerships between the private sector and civil society organizations. However, challenges remain, including limited financial resources, bureaucratic barriers, and a lack of awareness of the potential of social entrepreneurship among both local officials and the public. This article provides practical recommendations for local authorities to strengthen their support for social entrepreneurship, including the development of targeted grant programs, educational initiatives and cooperation projects with the private sector. By implementing these measures, local authorities can contribute to solving pressing social problems while stimulating economic growth and innovation at the community level.

Analysis of Current Challenges Affecting Business Operations of Two State Enterprises

study sought to establish challenges affecting the effective business operations of two Zimbabwe parastatals under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development namely, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA). The study was prompted by negative media reports and complaints from key stakeholders about the operations of these institutions. The main theory underpinning the study was the Resource-Based Entrepreneurship theory (RBET) by Hussain et al. (2019) complimented by the organisation theory (Oyibo and Gabriel, 2020). The pragmatism philosophy was applied to ensure that both quantitative and qualitative aspects of study were accommodated. The study used the mixed methods paradigm and the explanatory sequential design. The target population was made up of 97 managers from the GMB and the ZINWA, as well as government officials. A sample of 46 respondents was used to obtain quantitative data responses. Purposive sampling the online sample calculator were used to determine the two sample sizes made of those who provided qualitative data and those for quantitative data through use of a self -administered structured questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide. .The major findings were that the two parastatals did not have management succession plans and suffered from political interference, lacked financial resources to carry out their operations and deliver quality products and/ or services. The major recommendations were; the need to promote autonomy and reduce bureaucracy in their operations, mobilising more resources particularly finances to ensure that daily operational expenses are met, implementing sound corporate governance systems that address corruption and having a coherent and effective performance management system.

Analysis of Current Management Strategies on Business Operations of Two State Enterprises

The study sought to establish how effective were the business management strategies currently being used by two state enterprises in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development namely, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA). The study was prompted by the negative media reports and the complaints from key stakeholders about the operations of these institutions. The main theory underpinning the study was the Resource-Based Entrepreneurship theory (RBET) by Hussain et al. (2019) complimented by the organisation theory (Oyibo and Gabriel, 2020). The pragmatism philosophy was applied to ensure that both quantitative and qualitative aspects of study were accommodated. The study used the mixed methods paradigm and the explanatory sequential design. The target population was made up of 97 managers from both the GMB and the ZINWA, as well as government officials from the parent ministry from which a sample of 46 respondents was used to obtain quantitative data responses. A self -administered structured questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide were used. The major findings were that the two parastatals had several strategies which if fully utilised could improve their operations such as outsourcing some non-key services, holding of regular meetings to get updates on the economic activities which might impact on the entities and working with reputable partners to build business growth. The major recommended strategies are that both parastatals should conduct research to facilitate innovation and development, creating and enforcing prudent and transparent financial management systems, adoption of sound corporate governance framework (practices), as well as carrying out organisational restructuring, nurturing appropriate organisational culture and having effective performance management systems.

For and by the People? Internal Versus External Slum Tourism Entrepreneurs’ Impacts

The controversial impacts of slum tourism have sparked debate and raised questions about its benefits for impoverished communities. The potential positive effects of slum tourism often hinge on “last mile” strategies and the crucial role of local entrepreneurs who manage the visits and interactions in determining the benefits to these areas. Drawing on a blend of Social Entrepreneurship Theory and Economic Development Theory, we explore and compare the contributions of both internal and external slum tourism entrepreneurs. Our findings reveal striking differences in their strategies and orientations. For example, internal entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in the focal slum and prioritize long-term poverty alleviation through the creation of permanent jobs and innovative approaches, whereas external entrepreneurs tend to focus on profit maximization and diversification of their offer outside the slums. However, both internal and external entrepreneurs actively challenge stereotypes, catalyze skills’ development, and channel resources back into the slum communities. This research sheds light on the multifaceted impacts of slum tourism entrepreneurship, providing critical insights for future endeavors in community development and slum tourism studies.

Lessons from Team Entrepreneurship Research for General Entrepreneurship Theory

This paper suggests that the theory of entrepreneurship needs to be amended. This paper first shows how the phenomenon of entrepreneurial teams has become established in practice and in the literature. Then the axioms of entrepreneurship theory are discussed. This paper (with a literature review and GEM data) argues that there is an inconsistency within entrepreneurship theory: in order not to have to change the axioms of entrepreneurship theory, entrepreneurial teams were assumed to consist of individual entrepreneurs. This paper explains how that impedes advances in theory development and suggests a new taxonomy of entrepreneurs: the individual entrepreneur, the individual entrepreneur in a team, and a socially minded true team entrepreneur.

Academic Entrepreneurial Orientation for Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education in Indonesia: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Objective: This study aims to create a model for measuring the academic entrepreneurial orientation of higher education lecturers in Indonesia. Theoretical Framework: Academic entrepreneurship theory describes the perspective of commercialization of research in higher education to benefit society. This theoretical framework highlights the importance of individual entrepreneurial orientation in commercialization and academic entrepreneurship in higher education. Method: This research uses a quantitative survey. The target population was lecturers who have conducted research with commercial potential at eleven state universities in Indonesia. The research consisted of 330 samples, according to the ideal number of samples for structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis. Data analysis was conducted using confirmatory factor analysis and SEM techniques using the AMOS 21 program. Results and Discussion: The study shows that 15 factors contribute to lecturers' academic entrepreneurial orientation, proving to measure and explain their existence in the model and significantly supporting it. Research Implications: This study's findings can be a practical guide for universities to measure the entrepreneurial orientation of lecturers and develop it in the future. For the academic world, this research can inspire further research in the field of entrepreneurship, especially academic entrepreneurship. Originality/Value: This study presents a new model for building and measuring the academic entrepreneurial orientation of higher education lecturers in Indonesia in support of sustainable development goals.

Factors restraining youth involvement in fish farming business: Case study of Kamuthanga Village, Kenya

Fish farming serves as one of the important strategies for reducing unemployment and improving the standard of living for many households. However, in many African countries, including Kenya, a large number of young people tend to pursue administrative and white-collar jobs, resulting in a noticeable lack of youth participation in the fish farming sector. This trend underscores the challenge of attracting youth to agricultural enterprises like fish farming, despite its promising opportunities. This study explored the factors limiting youth participation in the fish farming business, targeting some individuals aged 18-35 in Kamuthanga village. The research follows a qualitative case study approach, with twenty-six (26) individuals interviewed. The study is grounded in the anthropological entrepreneurship theory, utilizing triangulation to ensure a holistic understanding. In-depth interviews and key informant interviews were employed to capture perceptions regarding barriers to youth involvement. The data was gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analyzed using Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) Miner Lite software. Data organization, coding, and theme development were conducted systematically to align with the study’s objectives. The findings revealed several challenges hindering youth involvement in fish farming, including the semi-arid conditions of Kamuthanga village, which lead to water scarcity; limited access to capital; insufficient technical knowledge; inadequate support structures; and some cultural barriers. These findings shed light on the critical factors that must be addressed to foster greater youth involvement in fish farming and ultimately unlock its potential for economic development and unemployment reduction in Kamuthanga village.

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.

Entrepreneurial Skills and Performance of Women’s Small Enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya

Performance enterprise is important determinant for survival and meeting stakeholders’ interests. However, a performance enterprise has been a concern as many small enterprises report dismal performances. Entrepreneurial dimensions are reported to leverage competitiveness, survival and growth of enterprises. Thus, study attempted to examine influence of entrepreneurial skills on performance of women owned small enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya. The study was guided by three specific objectives: evaluate the influence networking skills on performance of women’s small enterprises, to determine influence of communication skills on performance of women’s small enterprises and to investigate the influence of innovation skills on performance of women’s small enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Opportunity Based Entrepreneurship Theory, stakeholders’ theory and resource based firm theory. The study employed descriptive research design consisting of both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population was 1235 respondents, comprising of the management/owners of the women enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya. The sample size was 302 respondents obtained using the simple random techniques. The study utilized questionnaires to collect data. A pilot test was conducted to ensure data validity and reliability of the research instrument. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics with aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 software. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequencies and standard deviations assisted in summarizing sample characteristics, while inferential statistics regression, correlations and ANOVA to establish relationships. The findings of the study created insights among the operators influence of entrepreneurial skills on performance of women’s small enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya. Secondly, contribute to policy makers’ influence of contributing entrepreneurial skills on performance of women’s small enterprises. Lastly, to results contributed to academic discourse on entrepreneurial skills on performance of firms. Networking skills explained 43.2% of performance of women’s small enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya, communication skills 61.0%, and innovation skills 38.2% of performance of women’s small enterprises in Turkana County, Kenya. The study recommended for further research work to be conducted to review the influence of other variables on performance of women’s small enterprises in other counties in Kenya. Keywords: Strategy implementation, Strategy Evaluation, Accessibility of NGO’s to Donor Funding

Dynamics of Perceptions among Self-Employed Business Owners on Tax Collection Models in Tanzania.

Tax compliance issues among self-employed business owners in Tanzania arise from complex and inequitable tax models, exacerbated by inconsistent enforcement and poor policy communication. This study investigates the dynamics of tax collection models in Tanzania, focusing on the perceptions of self-employed business owners across key regions, including Tanga, Dodoma, Arusha, and Mbeya. Drawing on findings from the TAPACO research project, the research employs a mixed-methods approach grounded in pragmatism a philosophy that emphasizes practical solutions. The sample size consists of 150 participants, with data gathered through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews representing various sectors within these regions. Entrepreneurial theories such as the Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) Theory, Resource-Based View (RBV), and Theory of Entrepreneurial Alertness are utilized to frame the analysis of how self-employed business owners perceive tax estimates, bylaws, policies, the regulatory framework, and the tax collection environment. EO Theory explores how entrepreneurs’ risk-taking behaviors and reactivity to changes in the tax environment influence compliance decisions, The RBV examines how entrepreneurs strategically utilize their resources, particularly in making decisions about tax payments and investments in compliance technologies like Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs). The findings indicate that self-employed business owners in Tanzania face significant challenges with tax compliance, driven by inaccuracies in tax assessments, corruption within tax enforcement agencies, and a lack of training and infrastructure for adopting Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs). These factors, combined with poor communication of tax policies and regulations, have resulted in widespread non-compliance. The study concludes that effective tax compliance strategies must consider the entrepreneurial behaviors influenced by resource availability, risk tolerance, and alertness to regulatory changes. The study recommends strengthening anti-corruption frameworks within tax enforcement agencies, including regular audits, ethical training for task force members, and protections for whistleblowers. Transparency in tax collection operations is essential for rebuilding trust and encouraging voluntary compliance.

Does the underdog theory of entrepreneurship apply to refugees? Scrutinizing the determinants of entrepreneurial intentions of refugees in Portugal

Does the underdog theory of entrepreneurship apply to refugees? Scrutinizing the determinants of entrepreneurial intentions of refugees in Portugal

Institutional Framework and Innovative Entrepreneurship: An Analysis of their Impact on Business Development in Colombia

This research delved into the analysis of the role of institutional entrepreneurship within the Colombian business context, focusing on the process of divergent change promoted by entrepreneurs. Following the theory of institutional entrepreneurship, it examined how entrepreneurs operating in non-privileged positions within highly regulated industries challenge established conventions by developing new ventures. The study was underpinned by qualitative research of a descriptive nature, implementing a design based on a review of existing literature. The results of this analysis revealed that the integration of traditional entrepreneurial skills with supplementary and complementary competencies, oriented towards new institutional logics, can constitute an effective strategy for entrepreneurial development in Colombia. Consequently, it is concluded that institutional entrepreneurship exerts a significant influence on entrepreneurial change within Colombia. This finding provides valuable insights for future research and for the design of policies to promote innovation and entrepreneurial development in the country.

Pixels to Paychecks: Understanding The Determinant of Latent Entrepreneurial Transition in Digital Context

In the ever-changing landscape of China’s digital economy, comprehending the transition drivers from latent to active participation in entrepreneurship is critical. This research explores the factors shaping the decisions of latent entrepreneurs to become active entrepreneurs in a digital context. Using simple random sampling, this study randomly selected 18 industries within China’s major cities. This study collected cross-sectional data from 485 respondents in high-tech and low-tech industries across six major Chinese cities and tested the model using partial least structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Statistical findings conducted by SmartPLS reveal a nuanced interplay between personal factors and external traits in shaping the transition to active entrepreneurship. In particular, entrepreneurial competence, digital skills and literacy, and adaptability are crucial personal factors influencing this transition. Access to the necessary technology, startup cost, market and customer base, and government support are external traits found to significantly shape individual decisions to venture into digital entrepreneurship. Surprisingly, Logistics and Transportation (LAT) had no substantial impact on the transformation. This investigation strengthens entrepreneurship theory while also providing policymakers and industry actors with practical insights. Personalized training for entrepreneurs, spending on digital infrastructure, evidence-based regulations, and enhanced business innovation initiatives are among the recommendations.

Critical analysis of Rwanda’s Digital skills and entrepreneurship training toward solving youth unemployment

This study critically examines the role of digital skills and entrepreneurship training in addressing the persistent issue of youth unemployment in Rwanda. The paper primarily anchors on the Human Capital Theory and Entrepreneurship Theory to provide a solid theoretical framework, tying together education, skill development, and entrepreneurial activity as vital drivers of productivity, job creation, and economic development. By employing a qualitative methods approach that utilises qualitative stakeholder interviews, this research evaluates the effectiveness of the various policies and programs aimed at fostering digital and entrepreneurship skills to young people in Rwanda, to promote employment. The research unveils that these programs hold significant potential in equipping the Rwandan youth with relevant skills and nurturing an innovative and entrepreneurial culture. However, it also highlights key areas requiring attention: the lack of robust follow-up mechanisms and the need for continued support post-training. It advocates for policymakers and program implementers to prioritize these aspects to maximize their initiatives' impact. The implications of this study extend beyond Rwanda's borders as countries worldwide grapple with similar challenges. Therefore, the insights gleaned from Rwanda's approach could guide other nations in leveraging digital skills and entrepreneurship training to combat youth unemployment in the digital age. It concludes by recommending future research directions, including maintaining program relevance in the ever-evolving digital landscape and instituting more effective support mechanisms for venture sustainability.

Environmental uncertainty and entrepreneurial orientation in collectivist and individualist cultures: evidence from Brazil and Belgium

ABSTRACT A fundamental premise of the information processing approach in entrepreneurship theory is that the distribution and processing of information is key to opportunity identification. We propose that collectivist-individualist cultural values influence the efficacy of information processing leading to different levels of entrepreneurial orientation (EO). Specifically, we submit that collectivism enhances shared information processing and goal setting in a dynamic environment, while individualism facilitates creativity and divergent thinking that can help EO if sufficient informational input is available. To empirically verify our theory, we study the relationships using survey and archival data from a sample of 487 firms in six industries in Brazil and Belgium, two countries that contrast in collectivism-individualism. Consistent with our predictions, we find higher EO in the collectivist culture of Brazil under high environmental dynamism and low information availability, and this difference is increased by strategic planning.

Framework for developing entrepreneurial business models: Theory and practical application

A framework for developing entrepreneurial business models is crucial for guiding entrepreneurs from conceptualization to practical application in a dynamic market environment. This review outlines a comprehensive framework that integrates theoretical concepts with practical approaches to help entrepreneurs create robust and adaptable business models. The framework is grounded in a synthesis of contemporary entrepreneurship theories and practical insights drawn from case studies of successful ventures. It begins with a theoretical exploration of foundational business model components, including value proposition, customer segments, revenue streams, and cost structures. By leveraging established models such as the Business Model Canvas and the Lean Startup methodology, the framework provides a structured approach for entrepreneurs to design and validate their business models. A key component of the framework is its emphasis on iterative development and validation. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to employ lean principles, such as rapid prototyping and customer feedback loops, to refine their business models. This iterative process helps in adapting to market changes and customer needs, reducing risk, and improving the likelihood of success. The framework also incorporates strategic analysis tools to evaluate market opportunities, competitive landscape, and potential challenges. Practical application is emphasized through detailed guidelines and tools for each stage of business model development. This includes methodologies for conducting market research, identifying key resources and partnerships, and establishing operational processes. Additionally, the framework addresses the importance of financial planning and risk management, offering practical advice on funding strategies and contingency planning. The paper also highlights the significance of contextual factors, such as industry trends, regulatory environment, and technological advancements, in shaping business models. By incorporating these elements, the framework provides a holistic approach to entrepreneurial business model development. In conclusion, the proposed framework serves as a valuable guide for entrepreneurs seeking to develop and implement effective business models. It combines theoretical insights with practical tools and strategies, enabling entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of the business landscape and achieve sustainable success. This approach not only enhances the strategic planning process but also fosters innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving market environment.

Navigating uncertainty: configurations of entrepreneurial behaviors for new venture performance

Purpose The entrepreneurial process often cannot be explained by a single entrepreneurial theory. Instead, it is more likely the result of the interaction between various entrepreneurial behavior patterns and different environmental conditions. However, existing research has frequently overlooked the complexity inherent in the entrepreneurial phenomenon. Building on a configurational perspective, this study aims to examine how new ventures can use different behavioral configurations to achieve high performance amid various uncertain environments. Design/methodology/approach Based on the survey data from 143 new start-ups in China’s software industry, this study uses fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Findings This study jointly considers multiple entrepreneurial behaviors − causation, effectuation and entrepreneurial bricolage and different types of environmental uncertainty − state uncertainty, effect uncertainty and response uncertainty. The findings reveal three behavioral configurations for high/nonhigh new venture performance. Originality/value This study expands previous insights into the relationship between entrepreneurial behaviors and new venture performance from the perspective of configurational theory. Moreover, it offers new insights into the types of uncertainty, further refining our understanding of the uncertainties inherent in entrepreneurial activities.

The implications of the EU cohesion policy instruments and cross-border cooperation projects on social entrepreneurship in Euroregions

The current paper investigates the implications of the EU Cohesion Policy instrument Interreg through the implementation of cross-border cooperation projects on social entrepreneurship. Cross-border cooperation projects are implemented in Euroregions and invest in new knowledge and innovative solutions in policy priorities spread over social, environmental, and economic domains. Policy priorities in social and environmental domains overlap fields of play where social entrepreneurs operate. We build on the Knowledge Spillover Theory of Entrepreneurship and use a quantitative design to investigate the influence of EU-funded cross-border cooperation projects on the number of social enterprises in Luxembourg. We employed a rolling window analysis with ARIMA on a sample of 207 cross-border cooperation projects implemented between 2000 and 2020. We predicted social entrepreneurial activity in Euroregions in Luxembourg using investments through the EU Cohesion Policy in the social, environmental, and economic domains and identified a positive relationship in the social domain. The current study shows that investments in the social domain positively and significantly predict social entrepreneurial activity, supporting the critical role of the EU Cohesion Policy on social entrepreneurship. Our study discusses how social entrepreneurship can benefit from EU cross-border cooperation projects as recipients of potential knowledge spillovers.

Историческая наука о вкладе предпринимателей в формирование архитектурного облика городов дореволюционной Сибири

The aim of this article is to analyze the extent to which the role of entrepreneurs in the development of Siberian cities has been studied, particularly their contributions to the construction of various types of buildings in the region during the second half of the 19th – early 20th centuries. The renewed interest in the public and everyday life of entrepreneurs has prompted scholars to delve deeper into this subject. Researchers have explored a variety of topics, including contributions to the construction and renovation of administrative and commercial-industrial buildings, as well as cultural establishments such as libraries, museums, theaters, churches, temples, gymnasiums, and universities. New facts have emerged regarding entrepreneurs’ participation in philanthropy, with studies examining the motivations behind their charitable activities. The relevance of historiographical analysis, within the framework of modern discussions, is underscored by the theory of creative entrepreneur-ship. This theory, currently developing among modern Russian entrepreneurs from both large and small-to-medium-sized businesses, highlights their contributions to the architectural development of cities, culture, the economy, and philanthropy. This research provides valuable insights into how entrepreneurs of pre-revolutionary Siberia influenced not only the physical appearance of cities but also contributed to their social and cultural advancement.

Setting the tone: the diffusion of moral and moral-emotional appeals across political and public discourse

Abstract Whether a topic is seen in a moral or moral-emotional light has significant political implications. Yet, we lack knowledge about the process of moralization: Who defines the way topics are communicated about? Where prior research has investigated the relative power of different actors to place a topic on the agenda or shape opinions, we study who sets the moral and moral-emotional tone of debate. To do so, we zoom in on immigration discourse in Germany and analyze fine-grained social media data from politicians, political parties, newspapers, and members of the public over a period of more than four years. After employing a transformer model to identify moral and moral-emotional appeals, we use structural vector autoregression models to demonstrate the important role of radical-right challengers in shaping public discourse in a negative moral-emotional direction. The results inform theories of moralization and political entrepreneurship.