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How to Start an Entrepreneurial Revolution
... This independence not only fosters competition but also enhances the diversity of ideas and approaches available for public sector transformation (Kolain and Hillemann, 2022). Startups within the GovTech ecosystem are often deeply personal ventures, reflecting the values, creativity, and diversity of their founders (Isenberg, 2010). This founder-driven ethos imbues GovTech solutions with unique perspectives, further emphasizing the role of diversity in driving innovation (Bharosa, 2022;Nose, 2023). ...
... According to Bharosa (2022), GovTech ventures promise higher levels of citizen centrism and deliver direct value to the recipients of public services. This citizen-centric focus underscores the importance of diversity within GovTech teams, as their composition directly influences the inclusivity and relevance of the solutions they develop (Isenberg, 2010;Nose, 2023). The diversity at the highest levels of these organizations can ensure that public services are designed to meet the varied needs of the populations they serve. ...
... GovTech startups exhibit the closest resemblance to the broader startup ecosystem in terms of diversity metrics, such as gender, migration background, and socio-economic representation. This alignment underscores the entrepreneurial roots of GovTech as a sector driven by small-scale innovators who share the characteristics and challenges of startups in general (Isenberg, 2010). However, in some areas GovTech teams diverge significantly from public administration employees and the citizens they aim to serve (Bharosa, 2022). ...
This study investigates the potential role of diversity in shaping innovation outcomes within the GovTech sector, an emerging domain where startups collaborate with public administrations to drive digital transformation. While GovTech is positioned as a vehicle for more agile, inclusive, and citizen-oriented public services, its effectiveness hinges on the extent to which it mirrors the populations it serves. Grounded in theories of diversity management and diffusion of innovation, this research explores how the demographic composition of GovTech founders compares to public administration employees, the broader startup ecosystem, and the general citizenry in Germany. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining 108 expert interviews with GovTech founders and comparative analysis using secondary data from national datasets. It focuses on three diversity dimensions: gender, migration background, and socio-economic (labor vs. academic) background. The findings reveal substantial misalignments. GovTech startups are heavily male-dominated (85.7% male founders), starkly contrasting with the higher female representation in public administration (58.6%) and the near gender parity in the citizenry. Migration background is also underrepresented among GovTech founders (22.7%) relative to citizens (28.6%), though aligned with general startup trends. GovTech shows relatively strong socio-economic inclusivity, with 62.8% of founders from labor backgrounds, exceedingboth startup and citizen benchmarks. These demographic mismatches raise concerns about the representational legitimacy and inclusiveness of GovTech solutions, which may limit their relevance, adoption, and impact. Public administrations, while more gender-diverse, also exhibit gaps, particularly in migration and socio-economic representation, potentially compounding the dis-connect between technology providers and end-users. The study proposes strategic responses, including inclusive procurement policies, support for diverse founders, and cross-sector alignment initiatives to strengthen equity in digital public services.
... Hence, it is important to concentrate on developing and strengthening these ecosystems to guarantee the enduring growth of start-ups and a wider economy. Establishing a resilient and supportive atmosphere has been acknowledged as a key element that improves the sustainability of startup organizations and decreases their failure rates, particularly in times of uncertainty (Isenberg, 2010;Manurung & Putro, 2024). A conducive environment fosters innovation, competitiveness, and economic resilience, resulting in employment opportunities for local communities (Stam and Van de Ven, 2021). ...
... The theory applies to this study because it advocates the development of robust startups and entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe and other parts of the world. According to the theory, for a successful entrepreneurial environment, several essential elements are needed, such as favorable legislation, availability of financial resources, a supportive culture, well-developed infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and accessible markets, among others (Isenberg, 2010). These components work together to create a favorable environment for entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities and prospects brought about by disruptions. ...
... Online networking events and virtual conferences facilitate the maintenance of ties and promotion of collaboration, especially in the face of physical distancing measures. These networks play a vital role in facilitating the exchange of knowledge, resources, and support, thereby strengthening the resilience of the entrepreneurial ecosystem by enabling enterprises to learn from and assist one another (Isenberg, 2010). ...
Abstract
Purpose: Consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 8, this study explores the role of supportive ecosystems in nurturing resilient startups and entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe post-COVID-19.
Research Methodology: Comprehensive relevant literature drawing on Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, ProQuest, and JSTOR was conducted using the Zimbabwe case as the investigative context. Drawing on published peer-reviewed articles and official reports as data sources, fifty-eight articles and reports were thoroughly assessed for this study.
Results: The findings revealed that barriers to the growth of startups and entrepreneurial enterprises in Zimbabwe include difficulties in accessing finances, inadequate institutional support, a deficiency of mentorship networks, economic instability, infrastructure deficiencies, regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles, market constraints, and limited consumer purchasing power. The study also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has created digital transformation and innovation opportunities for startups.
Conclusion: This study concludes that the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Zimbabwe is weak and lacks most of the fundamental principles necessary for a thriving entrepreneurial environment.
Limitations: Overreliance on secondary data: Depending solely on secondary data sources without primary research may limit the depth of insights and understanding of local nuances and contexts.
Contribution: This study emphasizes the value of encouraging public-private partnerships and global alliances to support entrepreneurial ecosystems. This strategy can boost social inclusion, increase job opportunities, and promote economic growth. This study argues that fostering a supportive environment for startups and entrepreneurship can significantly empower emerging economies during post-pandemic recovery efforts.
... Each aspect individually supports the entrepreneurial environment but cannot sustain it independently. Together, however, these elements foster the development and growth of innovative enterprises (Isenberg, 2010). ...
... Cohen (2006) coined the term "entrepreneurial ecosystem," which refers to the collaborative integration of many community stakeholders in order to encourage and maintain entrepreneurial growth. Thereafter, the works of Feld (2012) and Isenberg (2010Isenberg ( , 2011 have since contributed significantly to the rising usage of this term. ...
... Furthermore, governments serve as enablers, offering access to resources such as talent, services, and finance (Feld, 2012). In contrast, Isenberg (2010) proposed a paradigm for entrepreneurial ecosystems centered on six key dimensions: policy, finance, culture, support, human capital, and market ( Figure 1). These ecosystem components do not exist in isolation; rather, they co-evolve, continuously influencing and reinforcing one another (Spigel, 2017;Mason and Brown, 2014). ...
Purpose
The concept of entrepreneurial ecosystems has garnered increasing attention from researchers and policymakers, driven by the significant variation in entrepreneurial activity across countries. However, a substantial research gap remains, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of how the components of entrepreneurial ecosystems interact and shape the entrepreneurial environment. Specifically, this paper examines the impact of regional entrepreneurial ecosystems on entrepreneurial development in Kazakhstan, where limited primary research on this topic exists, thereby contributing to the broader literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employs a qualitative case study approach to examine Kazakhstan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through 32 in-depth, face-to-face interviews, it explores the intricate dynamics shaping the country’s entrepreneurial environment, providing valuable insights into the interplay of key ecosystem components and their broader implications for entrepreneurial development.
Findings
The main findings reveal the hierarchical interconnections among the foundational components of entrepreneurial ecosystems in Kazakhstan. This study underscores the critical role of policy, human capital and finance in shaping Kazakhstan’s entrepreneurial landscape. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems and may serve as a foundation for comparative analyses with other post-Soviet states. The findings also highlight the need to prioritize certain elements of Kazakhstan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly the influential roles of policy frameworks, human capital cultivation, and financial support.
Practical implications
This study highlights valuable policy insights for the government of Kazakhstan, emphasizing the importance of incorporating regional specificities into the formulation and implementation of entrepreneurial policies. These findings also provide a foundation for broader policy discussions on enhancing entrepreneurial ecosystems in other emerging economies.
Originality/value
This study builds upon and refines Isenberg’s (2010) framework, demonstrating its applicability to emerging economies through empirical evidence from Kazakhstan. By contextualizing the framework within Kazakhstan’s entrepreneurial landscape, the research highlights key adaptations necessary for its effective implementation in similar economic environments. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders.
... Grâce aux technologies numériques avancées et aux réseaux globaux, elle modifie la structure des écosystèmes, influence les institutions et redistribue les ressources. Ces évolutions stimulent l'innovation et favorisent la croissance économique (Isenberg, 2010 ;Mason et Brown, 2017). Les écosystèmes entrepreneuriaux traditionnels (EET), historiquement ancrés dans des contextes locaux et souvent organisés autour d'institutions physiques, ont longtemps joué un rôle clé dans la création de valeur et le soutien aux entreprises. ...
... Cette section analyse l'évolution des écosystèmes entrepreneuriaux face à la transformation numérique. (Isenberg, 2010). Ces écosystèmes, centrés principalement sur la création de valeur économique, sont fortement influencés par des facteurs tels que la culture locale, l'accès au capital, la qualité des infrastructures et les interactions entre les parties prenantes (Spigel, 2017 ;Stam & Van de Ven, 2019). ...
... Par ailleurs, l'efficacité des EET repose en grande partie sur des composantes institutionnelles et culturelles qui façonnent leur fonctionnement. Les institutions offrent en effet des cadres réglementaires et des incitations susceptibles de stimuler l'entrepreneuriat (Isenberg, 2010). La culture entrepreneuriale de sa part, caractérisée par une attitude favorable à l'innovation et à la prise de risque, joue un rôle catalyseur en réduisant les barrières psychologiques et en renforçant la capacité des individus à exploiter des opportunités (Neck et al., 2004) Cependant, malgré leur contribution au développement économique, les EET traditionnels montrent des limites face aux défis contemporains tels que la digitalisation et la durabilité. ...
Cet article analyse les dynamiques des écosystèmes entrepreneuriaux traditionnels (EET) et numériques (EEN) dans un contexte de transformation numérique, en se concentrant sur leur impact sur les petites et moyennes entreprises (PME). Les EET, bien qu’ancrés dans des réseaux locaux solides, montrent des limites face aux exigences contemporaines, telles que la digitalisation et la durabilité. Par contraste, les EEN offrent une flexibilité accrue et des opportunités globales grâce à l’intégration des technologies numériques. À travers une approche méthodologique mixte combinant entretiens semi-directifs et questionnaires administrés à 250 PME marocaines, cette recherche met en évidence les complémentarités et tensions entre ces deux types d’écosystèmes. Les résultats révèlent que les PME intégrées dans des écosystèmes hybrides combinant des éléments des EET et des EEN présentent une maturité digitale plus élevée et une capacité accrue à innover. Enfin, des recommandations sont formulées pour promouvoir des politiques publiques et des collaborations renforcées, en vue de maximiser les synergies entre EET et EEN et d’accélérer la transition numérique des PME.
... frameworks, like funding, training, tax incentives, and access to basic infrastructure and telecommunications, for instance, entrepreneurs cognize an attractive environment where they can draw on (Isenberg 2010). ...
... Finally, "increased economic well-being" was pointed out as the main outcome related to the economic value creation dimension. Economic well-being can manifest in several ways, including job creation, innovation and productivity, increased income levels, wealth generation, enhanced local services, community development, and knowledge spillover, among others (Acs et al. 2017;Isenberg 2010;Stam 2015). Thus, from this result, we can comprehend that economic outcomes are interconnected with the Table 10. ...
While widely desired, sustainable transitions in entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) remain elusive. Identifying the critical EE conditions that foster knowledge‐intensive sustainable entrepreneurship (KISE) is essential. This study classifies key EE elements that support KISE and examines its sustainable development outcomes. Using a mixed‐methods approach, we apply the Delphi technique and the best–worst method (BWM) to analyze data from entrepreneurs. Findings indicate that formal policies, institutions, entrepreneurial culture, and social aspects are the most relevant EE elements for KISE. In terms of impact, KISE fosters local entrepreneurship, job creation, innovative products, and circular economy practices, contributing to economic well‐being and long‐term stability. These insights support policymaking that connects KISE to sustainable transitions within EE, particularly in developing countries. Our study advances the understanding of KISE's role in sustainability and highlights the need for tailored ecosystem strategies to enhance its impact.
... The idea of entrepreneurial ecosystems has been adopted to bridge this gap (Isenberg, 2010;Spigel, 2017;Stam, 2015). Research on entrepreneurial ecosystems offers a unique multi-actor point of entry for examining the location of high-growth entrepreneurship (Spigel, 2017) and making recommendations for proactive economic policies that could advance the global sustainability agenda (O'Shea et al., 2021). ...
... Therefore, nurturing an entrepreneurial local culture is fundamental (Uddin et al., 2015). Numerous cultural characteristics at the local level have been linked to entrepreneurship by earlier research, such as perceived support for entrepreneurship and cultural acceptance and tolerance (Bischoff, 2021), as well as an entrepreneurial culture that values innovation, encourages risk-taking, and, thus, contributes to entrepreneurial behavior (Isenberg, 2010). According to Wennberg et al. (2013), fear of entrepreneurial failure, assertiveness, ambiguity avoidance, and performance orientation are some other characteristics of an entrepreneurial local culture. ...
The sustainability orientation of entrepreneurial companies is crucial for addressing the sustainability challenges of our time. However, research on the role of sustainability in enhancing performance, as well as the factors enabling sustainability, has been inconclusive thus far. Our study, by relying on 639 Italian academic spinoffs from 59 public universities over the period 2006–2019, demonstrates the relevance of disentangling the role of environmental, social, and economic sustainability, as they contribute differently to economic performance. Economic sustainability enhances performance, environmental sustainability hinders it, and social sustainability does not play any role. However, the sustainability orientation of entrepreneurial ecosystems does play a role. University research and local awareness and support in terms of environmental sustainability can contribute to overcoming the negative effects of environmental sustainability on performance. Similarly, university research and local awareness and support in terms of economic sustainability reinforce the positive effects of economic sustainability on performance.
... Outros estudos também apontam o crescimento da literatura sobre ecossistemas de empreendedorismo (EE) nos últimos anos, em diferentes campos como de Administração de Empresas, Geografi a Econômica, Planejamento Urbano e Regional, Economia Industrial, Turismo e Sistemas de Informação (Thai;Mai;Do, 2023;Dana;Caputo, 2022). Trata-se de uma abordagem que visa introduzir o papel do ambiente na atividade empreendedora, a partir de uma visão sistêmica cujo pressuposto é que a atividade empreendedora se desenvolve a partir das interações entre diferentes agentes, condicionados pelas diferentes dimensões do ecossistema (Isenberg, 2010). O conceito de EE ganhou popularidade a partir da constatação de que não é possível analisar a atividade empreendedora sem entender o contexto no qual os autores estão inseridos (Alvedalen;Boschma, 2017). ...
... A fragmentação dos estudos decorre também da unidade de análise utilizada. Enquanto um grupo de autores segue a linha proposta por Isenberg (2010Isenberg ( , 2011Isenberg ( , 2016, analisando a criação de valor no ecossistema por parte dos empreendedores individuais (Acs et al., 2017), outros preferem estudar o ecossistema a partir da análise do conjunto de atores e fatores que o constituem (Roundy, 2016;Spigel, 2017;Acs et al., 2017;Neumeyer;Santos, 2018;Kitigawa;Mason, 2020). Há ainda autores que propõem uma base conceitual para estudar EE introduzindo elementos da teoria institucionalista na análise (Auschra et al., 2019), ou mostrando como os EE são afetados pela evolução das instituições e por vazios institucionais Cowden, 2020;Cloitre;Paulino;Theodoraki, 2022). ...
O objetivo deste capítulo é mostrar como a literatura de ecossistemas de empreendedorismo vem evoluindo e como se aproxima da abordagem da Triple Helix (TH) na discussão de políticas de apoio a tais ecossistemas. Como estudo de caso será enfocado o Programa Doutor Empreendedor da Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), que concede bolsas e auxílio financeiro para fomentar a criação de empresas de base tecnológica por doutores.
... Policymakers should design interventions that not only provide resources but also cultivate entrepreneurial skills and capabilities, enabling SMEs to effectively leverage these resources for improved performance. This includes promoting initiatives such as mentorship programs, business incubators, and networking opportunities that facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development (Isenberg, 2010). For SME owners and managers, the study emphasizes the importance of investing in their own entrepreneurial competencies. ...
... Similar to Audretsch et al. (2014)'s findings on the positiveinfluence of government support on entrepreneurship and innovation in Europe, this study highlights the significant role of government intervention in shaping entrepreneurial competencies in Northwest Nigeria. However, the effectiveness of these interventions depends on factors like program design, entrepreneur engagement, and the institutional environment(Bennett & Robson, 2004;Isenberg, 2010). While the large effect size in this study emphasizes the potential of strategic government initiatives to address skills gaps and strengthen entrepreneurial capacity in the region, further research should explore the most effective intervention types and their interaction with individual characteristics and the broader business context. ...
... Over the past decade, the entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) research field has emerged as a transdisciplinary promise to address entrepreneurship practice and policy challengesbut has it fulfilled its potential? Originating from practical questions (Isenberg, 2010;World Economic, 2013;Mason and Brown, 2014;Feld, 2020), EE research has started to permeate policymaking, produced practical insights to enhance entrepreneurs' capacity to leverage their EEs, broadened entrepreneurship concepts, and influenced our understanding of related phenomena. Concurrently, some of the most influential papers in entrepreneurship research have focused on EEs (García-Lillo et al., 2023), encompassing empirical (Stam and Van de Ven, 2021;Leendertse et al., 2022;Muñoz et al., 2022) and conceptual articles (Spigel and Harrison, 2017;Nicotra et al., 2018;Johnson et al., 2022) that investigated EE configurations and the link between EEs and entrepreneurial outputs, i.e., productive entrepreneurship and economic development. ...
... The evolution of EE research has been closely intertwined with policy challenges and objectives. Initially presented as a straightforward policy tool (Isenberg, 2010;World Economic, 2013;Feld, 2020), the concept gained traction among practitioners and policymakers for its intuitive appeal and promise of actionable insights. However, as academic research on EEs has progressed, attempts to reverse-theorize and add complexity to the concept may have inadvertently reduced its clarity and actionability for policymakers . ...
Entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) research has contributed to reshaping entrepreneurial policy and practice. Despite significant translational efforts, the gap between theory and actionable policy seems to be widening. This paper adopts a collaborative approach and critically reflects on the alignment of EE research with practical policy needs, structured around an interactive round-robin brainstorming with 58 EE scholars (i.e., 12 authors and 46 additional experts). We examine policy adoption in the context of EE, discussing the challenges and evolution of research methods, data, and theory. We propose a future policy-oriented research agenda, validated and prioritized by European policymakers, to ensure that EE research effectively informs entrepre-neurship policy. Okay, so you've done some research? That don't impress me much One of the most discouraging reactions when we joyfully share our research insights with a policymaker is hearing some version of: "That don't impress me much" (yes, Shania Twain style). Despite our best efforts, the response often reveals a gap between what we think is valuable and what actually resonates in practice. Entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) research started with the promise of generating practical impact, but somewhere along the way, it got stuck. While scholars refined definitions and debated frameworks, policymakers moved ahead-designing programs, allocating resources, and making decisions without the clarity research was supposed to provide. This growing disconnect is what this paper addresses. Rather than offering abstract ideas, we brought researchers and policymakers together to co-create a research agenda grounded in policy-relevant issues. The result is both a roadmap for future EE research and a toolkit for producing research questions with policy impact. We encourage you to explore three functions of our paper. 1. Use this paper as a diagnostic tool-bring it to a policymaker or entrepreneurship support organization in your region and use the framework to start a conversation within the next month. Let the framework be your excuse to get a meeting and start listening ask what challenges they face, what matters to them, and how your research might contribute, instead of pushing your own ideas. 2. Use it as a dialogue tool-organize an exchange that brings together researchers from different streams and a few unexpected guests, like policymakers or ecosystem builders. Take inspiration from our round-robin process to mix expertise, challenge assumptions, and co-develop ideas that require more research attention. 3. Use it as a design tool-now that you can see the widening gap between research and policy, take 15 min during your next break to reflect on your current project(s): how might your new understanding of how policymakers leverage research insights reshape your research design or questions to contribute to one or more of the policy process steps and better address policy-relevant issues? Doing so will not just dress your research to impress, it will dramatically raise the potential impact of your research, your proposed solutions, and how you contribute to entrepreneurial practice.
... Moore (1993) in a seminal work proposed EEs and their relevance and applications. Isenberg (2010Isenberg ( , 2016 extended this discussion and broadened the area of EE-related applications. ...
... Atkin et al., (2017a,b);Isenberg (2010Isenberg ( , 2011Isenberg ( , 2016; Jain(2023); Khan (2019); Liguori et al. (2019); Mack and Mayer (2016); Punjab Portal (2019); Punjab Skill Development Fund & Nielsen (2016); Siggelkow (2002); Sports Industries Development Center (2022); Stam and van de Ven (2019); The World Bank (2020a, b); World Economic Forum (2013, 2014, 2019); UNCTAD (2013, 2019); UNIDO (2009). Also see: Dawn.com; ...
The purpose of this case-based research paper is to analyze and discuss entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) and their evolutionary growth and global expansion. We achieve this purpose by specifically investigating Sialkot’s (Pakistan) EE and its sports goods industry which is a world-renowned business cluster and continues to attract domestic and global consumers and multinational corporations (MNCs). This EE is a well-known phenomenon to be reckoned with in global markets. Drawing upon the literature of EE and international entrepreneurship, we systematically explore and investigate Sialkot’s EE and its growth potential and global expansion beyond Pakistan. Findings of the study reveal that Sialkot’s sports goods industry and its EE took over 77 years to be built with the help of nascent entrepreneurs, innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and progressive local and national agencies and state organizations. This EE remains to be immensely successful and economically competitive in the country and beyond. The paper adds a meaningful value to the literature of EE and international entrepreneurship and provides future research directions and lessons for other entrepreneurs and businesses in Pakistan and global markets.
... Although the discussion and definition of EEs started a few decades ago, the concept only started to gain traction with (Isenberg, 2010) seminal work on Harvard Business Review, with its theoretical and practical use growing exponentially in the following years (see reviews (Alvedalen and Boschma, 2017;Kansheba and Wald, 2020;Roundy, 2017) proposed an EE framework composed of six domains: policy, finance, culture, supports, human capital and markets. More recently, several authors provided valuable contributions to deepening the theoretical foundations of the concept and its empirical application, detailing the definition and/or proposing metrics to measure EE elements (Leendertse et al., 2021;Stam and van de Ven, 2021). ...
... Networks. As EEs are widely considered a network phenomenon (Fernandes and Ferreira, 2021), one of their main premises is the existence of formal and informal relationships between the actors of a given place (Isenberg, 2010). In the case of LDTs, the interactions between people and institutions are different than in urban areas (Roundy, 2017;Miles and Morrison, 2020). ...
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the distinctive features of entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) in low-density territories (LDTs) and propose an innovative EE framework tailored to these specific contexts.
Design/methodology/approach
To achieve our objective, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of 51 relevant research papers that shed light on the characteristics of EEs in LDTs. By critically examining existing EE theoretical frameworks, we assess their applicability to the distinct features of LDTs.
Findings
The study highlights both the challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face in LDTs, emphasizing the importance of local leadership, long-term strategic vision, collaborative approaches, sustainability and open boundaries with external ecosystems. We demonstrate that successful EEs in LDTs require customized strategies that reflect the region’s specific cultural, social and economic dynamics, as well as the integration of natural capital.
Research limitations/implications
The variability among LDTs may limit the generalizability of our framework. Additionally, we focused exclusively on peer-reviewed articles, excluding other sources such as books and conference papers, which could offer complementary perspectives.
Practical implications
Developing resilient EEs in LDTs can serve as a catalyst for both economic and social growth in these regions. Our framework provides policymakers with practical tools to empower local entrepreneurs, stimulate economic activity and promote sustainable development in their regions.
Originality/value
This research makes a pioneering contribution by offering a tailored EE framework for LDTs, addressing gaps in the existing urban-centric models. Our findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and a foundation for future research in rural entrepreneurship.
... The ecosystem and its components play a crucial role in fostering and supporting the development of startups and entrepreneurial ventures within a particular region or industry by nurturing the entrepreneurial mindset and culture, developing and exploiting opportunities, launching new firms, driving innovation, and contributing to the sustainability, growth or demise of small firms (Wurth et al., 2022). The investigation of the nature and role of these factors have attracted growing attention from researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurs over the last couple of decades, starting some 15 years ago with the work of Isenberg (2010) in the Harvard Business Review, where he analysed and contrasted factors in the external environment in multiple geographies that contributed to the emergence of entrepreneurial 'hot beds'. Overall, the entrepreneurial ecosystem regulates access to various resources essential for startups, including funding, mentorship, talent, infrastructure, and support services such as legal and accounting assistance, and facilitates connections among entrepreneurs (networking opportunities), investors, mentors, industry experts, and other stakeholders, creating opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. ...
... According to Isenberg (2010), successful EEs in urban regions have an infrastructure functioning through several layers. Business incubators and accelerators have rapidly grown in recent years. ...
The 2023/24 Estonian report reveals a notable decline in both early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA) and established business ownership (EBO) since the 2017 peak, with TEA at 13.1% and EBO at 7.9% in 2023. Despite this, Estonia maintains a strong international outlook, with over half of early-stage entrepreneurs targeting foreign markets and 24.5% offering innovative products or services.
Public attitudes toward entrepreneurship remain positive, with 55.7% of adults viewing entrepreneurship as a desirable career choice. However, perceived opportunities and capabilities have decreased, and fear of failure has returned to 2014 levels (49.8%). Notably, gender and regional disparities persist, with North-East Estonia and women showing lower entrepreneurial engagement. The National Expert Survey highlights Estonia’s strong cultural support and digital infrastructure, though entrepreneurial education and support programs show mixed evaluations. The findings underline the resilience of Estonia’s entrepreneurial spirit amid global economic uncertainties and emphasize the need for targeted policy action.
... A pesar de ello, los empleos generados aún presentan desafíos en cuanto a formalización y sostenibilidad, seguridad social y estabilidad a largo plazo. Por tanto, el ecosistema necesita consolidarse como un entorno que no solo facilite el emprendimiento informal, sino que lo acompañe en procesos de sostenibilidad, escalabilidad y de impacto social (Mason & Brown, 2014;Coraggio, 2011), demostrando que los s emprendimientos pueden ser motores de desarrollo económico local (Isenberg, 2010). ...
El presente artículo explora el rol del ecosistema emprendedor en el fortalecimiento de la economía popular social y comunitaria (EPSC) en Ecuador, con el objetivo de generar empleo en contextos territoriales excluidos del mercado formal. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo de enfoque exploratorio, basado en entrevistas a actores clave del ecosistema emprendedor ecuatoriano. Los resultados muestran que el ecosistema emprendedor, aunque fragmentado, presenta un gran potencial para promover la inclusión económica y el empleo, siempre que se fortalezcan las políticas públicas y las redes de apoyo comunitarias. Las conclusiones subrayan la necesidad de un ecosistema más cohesionado que permita la sostenibilidad de las iniciativas productivas comunitarias a largo plazo.
... In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the concept of ecosystems has emerged as a central paradigm, offering a diverse framework through which organizations can interact and create value (Adner, 2017;Jacobides et al., 2018;Scaringella and Radziwon, 2018;Shipilov and Management scholars have identified several types of ecosystems (Jacobides et al., 2018;Cobben et al., 2022): business ecosystems (Moore, 1993), innovation ecosystems (Adner, 2006), entrepreneurial ecosystems (Isenberg, 2010), knowledge ecosystems ( Van der Borgh et al., 2012), platform ecosystems (Gawer and Cusumano, 2014). This proliferation has led to various challenges in understanding the phenomenon and its applications. ...
Purpose
We investigate how digital technologies contribute to the development of dynamic capabilities for innovation ecosystem orchestration, focusing on the EdTech industry.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is based on eight case studies deepened through three rounds of (comprehensively 23) interviews. Empirical evidence has been enriched and validated through the triangulation of several secondary data.
Findings
We demonstrate that digital technologies play a crucial role in enhancing ecosystem-wide collaboration and information sharing, thereby facilitating the development of dynamic capabilities for innovation ecosystem orchestration. Moreover, we underscore the significance of digital skills in fully realizing the potential of digital solutions to foster collaboration and value creation within ecosystems.
Research limitations/implications
While insightful, findings are context-specific to the EdTech industry. Future research should explore broader industry applicability and delve into nuanced factors influencing digital skills and innovation ecosystem orchestration in varied contexts.
Practical implications
Strategic use of digital technologies enhances collaboration and value creation within ecosystems as well as empowering their competitiveness, entrepreneurial attitude and innovation.
Originality/value
The paper elucidates the pivotal role played by digital technologies in innovation ecosystem orchestration and dynamic capabilities’ development, shedding light on how organizations should organize themselves to continuously adapt to an ever-changing competitive environment.
... It serves as a tool that not only generates a skilled workforce and adds value through the creation or transformation of knowledge but also enhances individuals' values and attitudes regarding these matters (Guerrero & Urbano, 2012). In this vein, the entrepreneurial university plays a relevant role in entrepreneurial ecosystems by supplying human capital, education, culture, enabling networks, access to investors, and support systems (such as incubators and science parks), among other facilities (Alves et al., 2021;Fischer et al., 2018;Isenberg, 2010). ...
Sustainability is a prominent topic that practitioners, scholars, and society have discussed, requiring the engagement of a diversity of agents to happen effectively. In turn, universities, as recognized knowledge producers and crucial professional trainers, play a significant role in collaborating to solve socio and environmental issues. Yet, the process through which academic institutions combine technology transfer and sustainability remains largely uncharted by dedicated literature. Through analysis of patent portfolios, technological transfer agreements, and agents’ perspectives, the article’s main goal is to analyze the process of sustainability institutionalization in an entrepreneurial university, considering the role of technology development and transfer. From a single in-depth network analysis, secondary data, and qualitative case study at the University of Campinas, Brazil, our main outcomes indicate that it is necessary to integrate and coordinate strategies to conduct sustainable processes via technological transfer. The technological development of sustainable patents is mainly based on researchers’ personal influence financed by public funding. Even with low levels of institutional engagement behind them, most licensing agreements from the University come from sustainable patents. The creation of institutional guidelines, coordination, and strategies to reinforce sustainable developments and partnerships can promote more sustainable technological development and technology transfer agreements.
... Every innovation must satisfy market demand, and thus, supply and demand are crucial aspects of every entrepreneurial ecosystem (Sussan and Acs, 2017). For physical products, distribution networks and logistics are also an aspect usually associated with the market element (Isenberg, 2010). Culture is another crucial element referring to values, beliefs, and norms related to entrepreneurial activity. ...
Sustainable business model innovation is crucial to foster a more sustainable economy. However, such innovations are challenging and prior research on barriers often focuses on ex-post analysis of successful companies and neglects systemic conditions. The article applies an entrepreneurial ecosystem perspective that emphasizes business model innovation as a central outcome of ecosystems. The qualitative study of 46 firms excavates distinct barriers pertaining to different elements of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and shows how they prevent sustainable business model innovation of value propositions, value creation, and value capture. The article contributes to research on the barriers of sustainability transformation and business model innovation and to studies on the relation between entrepreneurial ecosystem elements and business model innovation.
... The concept of EE has emerged as a powerful framework to understand the conditions that enable or hinder entrepreneurial activity (Beynon et al. 2020;Yan et al. 2023). Isenberg (2010) defines an EE as a system composed of six interrelated domains, policy, finance, culture, supports, human capital, and markets, that must function in concert to foster entrepreneurship. These systems view highlights that no single factor drives entrepreneurial success; rather, the configuration and interaction of elements shape the outcomes. ...
In the face of escalating environmental challenges, the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have become crucial benchmarks for sustainability, with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) addressing key issues like energy efficiency, resource management, and climate change. This study explores the impact of the entrepreneurship ecosystem (EE) on these environmental goals, using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and applying advanced machine learning techniques such as bagging, random forest, boosting, Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP), and Partial Dependence Plots (PDPs). Grounded in sustainability, innovation, Resource‐Based View (RBV), and institutional theories, the study reveals the critical role of the business services sector, entrepreneurial intentions, and entrepreneurial education in driving progress toward environmental sustainability. The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and contribute to the academic understanding of how entrepreneurship can be leveraged to achieve SDGs, emphasizing the need for a robust and integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster sustainable practices.
... Other research in the fields of regional economics and entrepreneurship, summarized by Piergiovanni et al. (2012), has also observed a strong correlation between the presence of universities and other institutional collaborators (such as government entities, conferences, exhibitions, consultants) and local innovation and the establishment of new firms. Furthermore, universities, especially those offering business and entrepreneurship education, play a significant role in fostering an 'entrepreneurial climate' and nurturing the innovation ecosystem (Audretsch & Belitski, 2017;Isenberg, 2010). Finally, we should also consider the role of local and national governments issuing laws and performing regulatory interventions over their jurisdictions. ...
Effective technological innovation relies on having ample knowledge resources to enhance firm performance and knowledge creation. Innovators seek both internal and external knowledge, actively engaging in a continuous search for these valuable resources. Knowledge collaboration is a specific strategy that innovative firms can follow during Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption processes. This study investigates the role of AI and knowledge collaboration in firm innovation. Using data from 14,143 firms in the UK between 2004 and 2020, we explore how AI adoption impacts knowledge spillover of innovation. Our findings suggest that firms adopting AI can enhance their innovation performance if it complements firm’s own investment in R&D. AI adoption can substitute knowledge collaboration with certain external partners. The results help us to rethink resource allocation for knowledge spillover of innovation in the era of AI and digital technologies.
... A similar search in January 2025 yielded 94 million results, marking an almost tenfold increase in just ten years. This surge was initially driven by practitioners and policymakers (Isenberg, 2010;Feld, 2012;Mason & Brown, 2014;Mulas et al., 2015;World Economic Forum, 2014;Stangler & Bell-Masterson, 2015). In the academic literature, there is a growing number of'state of the art' reviews (Acs et al., 2023;Cunningham et al., 2024;Huggins et al., 2024;Manimala & Wasdani, 2015;Spigel, 2020;Theodoraki, 2024;Wurth et al., 2023). ...
Over the past decade, publications about the ‘entrepreneurial ecosystem’ (EE) have increased. EE promotes entrepreneurship-based innovation, value creation, and economic development. It emphasises the role of human agents, mainly entrepreneurs, and their interconnected actions within complex adaptive networks. This paper builds on previous critiques of the ecosystem metaphor and its flawed application to entrepreneurship (Mars et al., 2012; Pickett and Cadenasso in Ecosystems, 5:1–10, 2002; Krivý in Digit Geograph Soc, 5:100057, 2023; Kuckertz in J Bus Ventur Insights, 11:1–7, 2019; Harrison and Rocha, in: Huggins, Kitagawa, Prokop, Theodoraki, Thompson (eds) Entrepreneurial ecosystems in cities and regions: emergence, evolution, future, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2024). At best, the EE is a weak and inappropriate metaphor, offering limited value as an analytical tool. This analysis lays the groundwork for a critical perspective on future research regarding entrepreneurial ecosystems. This should focus on a paradigm of ‘closing down’—setting clear boundaries, reducing ambiguity, and examining what can and cannot be transferred from the source metaphor (ecosystem) to the target domain (place-specific entrepreneurship-led economic development).
... The phrase "entrepreneurial ecosystem" is frequently used interchangeably to refer to a collection of interdependent actors and factors which are coordinated in such a way as to enable productive entrepreneurship within a particular territory. The term "entrepreneurial environment" refers to a combination of factors which play a role in the development of entrepreneurship (Isenberg, 2010;Stam and Bosma, 2015;Mack and Mayer, 2016). Researchers concur that many elements of the entrepreneurial environment are required to support entrepreneurial activity and hence boost economic growth (Valliere, 2010;Urban, 2019). ...
The entrepreneurial potential of the informal sector is becoming more widely acknowledged. However, empirical research on the effectiveness of small, medium enterprises (SMEs) in Africa's informal economy is generally lacking. In light of this research vacuum, this paper examines entrepreneurial enabling factors in the setting of Zimbabwean townships to ascertain how they affect the performance of SMEs which eventually lead to the formalisation of these SME’s that will result in disclosure of financial information. In Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, SMEs headquartered in townships are surveyed, and correlation and regression analysis are used to evaluate hypotheses. The findings show that enterprise performance is significantly predicted by institutional support, talent and competency development, and access to markets and financing. It is a crucial strategy that considers the range of enabling environment elements that affect enterprise performance in Zimbabwe, a country beset by high unemployment, poverty, inequality, and other socioeconomic issues.
... Os ecossistemas de inovação são estruturas dinâmicas compostas por redes complexas de interações entre diferentes atores, incluindo empresas, universidades, governos e organizações de pesquisa, com o objetivo de impulsionar a inovação, o empreendedorismo e o desenvolvimento econômico e tecnológico (Isenberg, 2010;Feldman & Audretsch, 1999). Essas redes desempenham um papel central na transformação dos territórios ao possibilitar a geração, disseminação e implementação de novas ideias, processos e tecnologias, criando um ambiente propício ao surgimento de soluções inovadoras e ao fortalecimento da competitividade regional. ...
Resumo: Ecossistemas de inovação facilitam a interação entre ciência, economia, governo e sociedade, com potencial para impulsionar o desenvolvimento econômico no Brasil por meio da sinergia e colaboração entre diferentes atores. Este artigo investiga fatores que afetam o ritmo e desempenho dos ecossistemas locais de inovação (ELI) nas cinco regiões geográficas do país, abordando a importância da perspectiva regional para o amadurecimento desses ecossistemas. O estudo revela tendências e especificidades na evolução dos ELI, destacando a necessidade de compreender a efetividade e integração dos seus componentes para promover avanços significativos. Palavras-chaves: Inovação e Invenção: Processos e Incentivos; Desenvolvimento Econômico: Urbano, Rural e Regional; Empreendedorismo.
Abstract: Innovation ecosystems facilitate interactions between science, economy, government, and society, with the potential to drive economic development in Brazil through synergy and collaboration among various actors. This paper investigates factors influencing the pace and performance of local innovation ecosystems (LIEs) across the country's five geographic regions, emphasizing the importance of a regional perspective in their maturation. The study highlights trends and specificities in the evolution of LIEs, underscoring the need to understand the effectiveness and integration of their components to achieve significant advancements.
... The presence of entrepreneurial aspirations among young people can be either encouraged or discouraged by policies enacted by the government, such as financial incentives, regulatory frameworks, and programmes designed to encourage entrepreneurship. Young businesspeople in India and China might be encouraged to start their own companies through initiatives implemented by their respective governments [49]. ...
This research compares youth entrepreneurs in India and China, two of the world's fastest-growing economies. The data used for this study come from secondary sources that have already been compiled and published, such as reports, research journal articles, government websites and statistics, annual business reports, industrial publications and surveys done by various renowned organizations. This research aims to compare the entrepreneurial intentions among Indian and Chinese youth. The data from the two nations will be compared and contrasted to see whether there are any connections or variations in the factors that impact young people's intentions to start their businesses. According to the research, cultural, educational, family, government, and economic variables affect young entrepreneurial ambition in both nations. China's young have more entrepreneurial intent than India's. These findings imply that boosting young entrepreneurship in India and China needs a detailed knowledge of cultural and environmental variables that impact entrepreneurial intention. The report also emphasizes the necessity for country-specific policies and programmes for young entrepreneurs.
... Innovation is understood here not only as technological novelty, but as the ability to generate, apply, and scale contextually relevant solutions that create systemic value across public and private sectors. This broad understanding aligns with Isenberg's concept of entrepreneurial ecosystems, where startups serve as dynamic agents of change embedded in interdependent networks of institutions, markets, and policy frameworks (Isenberg, 2010). In this view, fostering startup participation in public procurement contributes to innovation not merely by introducing new products, but by reshaping the structure of the innovation system itself. ...
The growing dominance of large technology companies in Europe’s digital markets raises concerns about innovation concentration, limited competition, and reduced technological sovereignty. Public procurement represents a powerful yet underutilized instrument to address these dynamics by enabling smaller firms to compete, innovate, and scale within critical sectors. This study examines how public procurement can strengthen innovation capacity and economic diversity in the European information and communication technology sector. Focusing on the participation of startups and small businesses, we provide large-scale empirical evidence on structural barriers and market concentration in cross-border procurement practices. Our studyreveals that public procurement systems often reproduce existing power asymmetries, despite policy ambitions to foster inclusivity and competition. Our findings highlight the significance of procedural complexity, limited outreach, and insufficient institutional capacity as key obstacles to startup participation. Moreover, we show that small and medium sized companies are far from homogeneous, necessitating targeted policy responses rather than uniform support measures. By framing startup inclusion as a systemic condition for innovation and digital sovereignty, the study contributes to ongoing theoretical debates on demand-side innovation policy and strategic governance. It also offers actionable insights for policymakers and procuring agencies aiming to design inclusive, innovation-oriented procurement ecosystems. In doing so, the study advances the academic discourse on public procurement and provides practical insights to support a more competitive and resilient European ecosystem by leveraging public procurement volume.
... O foco está nos componentes do ecossistema. Isenberg (2010) É "a interação dinâmica e institucionalmente incorporada entre atitudes, habilidades e aspirações empreendedoras, por indivíduos que impulsionam a alocação de recursos por meio da criação e operação de novos empreendimentos". ...
... Entrepreneurial ecosystems are guided by the premise that such a model fosters entrepreneurship within a context and coevolves through interactions among various elements (Isenberg, 2010). According to Spigel (2017), entrepreneurial ecosystems are combinations of social, political, economic, and cultural elements within a region that support the development and growth of innovative firms and encourage nascent entre preneurs and other actors to take the risk of starting high risk businesses. ...
Resumo Este estudo busca identificar os fatores que impulsionam cidades empreendedoras no Brasil, analisando o ranking elaborado pela Escola Nacional de Administração Pública utilizando o Índice de Cidades Empreendedoras. Foram realizadas análises de correlação e regressão utilizando o método dos mínimos quadrados ordinários. Os resultados indicaram que a proporção de Microempreendedores Individuais, a educação voltada ao empreendedorismo e o número de graduados em ensino superior são fatores que exercem uma influência positiva sobre as cidades empreendedoras. No entanto, a gestão municipal não apresentou nenhuma influência sobre elas. Os resultados mostraram os níveis de empreendedorismo e educação que alicerçam os ecossistemas municipais em empreendedorismo, bem como apontaram a ausência de influência da gestão municipal no índice de cidades empreendedoras, o que poderá comprometer a infraestrutura desses ecossistemas. Este estudo avança na compreensão dos impulsionadores de cidades empreendedoras no Brasil, apresentando, assim, uma contribuição teórica para o estudo de ecossistemas de empreendedorismo no contexto de países emergentes.
... Entrepreneurial ecosystems refer to the interconnected elements that support entrepreneurship within a specific geographic area or industry. Isenberg (2010) introduced the concept, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to fostering entrepreneurship. Key components include access to capital, talent, mentorship, supportive policies, and market opportunities. ...
Entrepreneurial ecosystems play a critical role in fostering innovation and supporting start-up growth. This study evaluates key ecosystem components, such as access to funding, mentorship, and networks, in driving entrepreneurial success in developed and developing countries.
... Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems are essential for building resilient economies and supporting long-term economic growth (Iacobucci and Perugini 2021). Isenberg (2010) identifies six key components of entrepreneurial ecosystems: support systems, finance, policy, culture, markets, and human capital. Stam and Van de Ven (2021b) expand this model, incorporating 10 elements, including formal institutions, networks, infrastructure, and leadership. ...
This study examines how institutional conditions influence entrepreneurial activity in South Africa and the United Kingdom. It investigates how globalization fosters or constrains new business formation and the growth of established businesses. Using hierarchical regression analysis, the study analyzes panel data from 2001 to 2020 to assess the effects of globalization on early-stage and established entrepreneurship and its impact on unemployment. The Sobel test is applied to determine whether entre-preneurial activity mediates the relationship between globalization and unemployment. The findings show that in the United Kingdom, globalization supports both early-stage and established entrepreneurship, contributing to lower unemployment. In South Africa, however, globalization primarily benefits established businesses, while early-stage entrepreneurial ventures face structural challenges such as limited access to finance and regulatory inefficiencies. These results highlight the importance of a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem in ensuring that globalization leads to broad-based business growth and job creation. The study emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions to improve institutional support, particularly in emerging economies , so that early-stage businesses can integrate into global markets and contribute to sustainable economic development.
... Значну увагу 235 БІЗНЕСІНФОРМ № 2_2025 www.business-inform.net екосистемному підходу у своїх дослідженнях приділяють J. Moore [7] та D. Isenberg [8]. Проблематика цифрових рішень у підприємництві ґрунтується на результатах досліджень динамічних здатностей D. Teece [9] та G. Pisano [10]. ...
The modern economic development is accompanied by active digital transformation of business processes and the implementation of SMART technologies, which defines new directions of strategic entrepreneurship. A key challenge for Ukraine is the integration of digital innovations into entrepreneurial ecosystems, which could serve as a foundation for enhancing the competitiveness of the economy. However, there are significant barriers, such as the fragmentation of ecosystems, insufficient investment in digitalization, and limited access to international markets. The aim of the article is to analyze the conception of strategic entrepreneurship in a digital environment and to develop recommendations for its development in Ukraine. For this, bibliometric analysis methods, comparative analysis of international experience, and systemic modeling of entrepreneurial ecosystems have been applied. The main trends of digital transformation are explored, and the degree of integration of digital solutions into the business models of Ukrainian enterprises is analyzed in comparison with developed countries. The main results of the study are the identification of key factors influencing the development of strategic entrepreneurship and the formulation of practical recommendations for creating conditions for its growth. It is found that the low level of digital maturity among small and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine significantly limits the opportunities for innovative development. Measures have been proposed to improve digital infrastructure, promote international partnerships, and establish national policies to support entrepreneurial ecosystems. The scientific value of the research lies in expanding the conceptual understanding of strategic entrepreneurship in a digital context, further developing the theoretical and methodological framework of strategic entrepreneurship, and identifying effective mechanisms for adapting digital technologies to the business environment in Ukraine. The practical significance of the article is the potential use of the obtained results for the development of government policies to support entrepreneurship and foster the creation of innovative business models.
... The EE approach conforms to the typical analytical lens in this context by taking into account the conditions that make new firms possible to emerge and thrive. In addition, EE take into account the contextual domain and individual decision-making processes, together with interconnected actors and system-level contexts (Audretsch et al. 2022), underscoring the critical components within localized entrepreneurial structures, their interconnections, and their impact on the genesis and evolution of entrepreneurship (Brown and Mason 2014;Isenberg 2010). Stam (2015) described EE as an interdependent set of actors that enable entrepreneurial actions. ...
Sustainable entrepreneurship has become a topic of increasing attention in literature, policy, and in managerial practice. Yet, the connection between sustainable entrepreneurial action and contextual elements associated with the entrepreneurial ecosystems in which these individuals are embedded remains an elusive topic. To address this gap, we aim in this research to investigate how sustainable entrepreneurs combine the various elements of the entrepreneurial ecosystem to create blended value (social, economic, and environmental). By adopting an agent-centric perspective-data collection via questionnaires based on subjective evaluations-we are able to dig deeper into the views of entrepreneurs concerning the impacts generated by entrepreneur-ial ecosystems' features. We adopt Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) techniques to analyze a sample of entrepreneurs that took part in the Innovative Research in Small Business funded by the São Paulo Research Foundation, a policy program designed to provide seed funding and support for knowledge-intensive entrepreneurs in the region. PLS-SEM results demonstrated that only social and cultural factors impact blended value creation. Complementary fsQCA results provided more detailed and nuanced insights into the complex causal relationships between ecosystem elements and the value creation, considering three configurations that exert heterogeneous effects. Overall, findings revealed a need for more alignment between the entrepreneurial ecosystems' elements and blended value creation. As such, sustainable transitions in the analyzed region seem to require more active initiatives targeted at creating a more nurturing environment for blended value creation in the analyzed context.
Despite an abundance of incubators, grants and training schemes, many entrepreneurs in South Africa’s Western Cape still cannot find the right help when they need it. To understand why, we combined 13 semi-structured interviews with key ecosystem actors and two rounds of collaborative workshops involving 32 practitioners, funders and policymakers. Using thematic coding and supplemented by descriptive frequency counts, we traced three persistent bottlenecks: fragmented service delivery, policy processes that are hard to navigate, and funding rules that sideline women and young founders. We then co-created a practical roadmap that centers on a single digital growth hub, streamlined “trust-based” financing that accepts alternative documentation, and peer-led mentorship circles. Together, these measures turn scattered resources into a coherent support system without demanding large new budgets. Although grounded in the Western Cape, the framework speaks to other emerging regions where coordination failures, rather than resource scarcity, hold back entrepreneurial activity. By showing how local voices can shape ecosystem design, the study offers scholars fresh empirical material and gives policymakers a people-centered template for building more inclusive, resilient entrepreneurial environments.
The Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector is the backbone of the economy in various countries, and several challenges have hindered its growth. The sharp decline of participants in the SME sector across BRICS countries indicates the difficulties besetting the industry. This study explores the entrepreneurial ecosystems within BRICS nations, emphasizing that regulatory frameworks, policies, and legislation are pivotal factors contributing to the stagnation and decline of SMEs, especially in developing contexts. While governments aim to stimulate growth for the SME sector, on one end, the very SMEs are suffocating with compliance issues, labor laws, tax-related matters, and municipal bylaws, among others. This paper presents the main findings from qualitative research mapping the BRICS entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE). The analysis is underpinned by the six elements of EE developed by Daniel Isenberg: the regulatory framework, market conditions, access to finance, policy, Human capital, and an enabling culture. The study gathered qualitative data from secondary sources and interrogated existing policies on the above-mentioned determinants. Publications from Scopus, Web of Science, OECD reports, and government websites were used to source information using keyword searches. A notable decline in SME participation across BRICS countries underscores the difficulties faced. Barlow and Panton identify regulatory compliance burdens as a primary obstacle for SMEs, leading to higher operational costs and reduced competitiveness. Similarly, the World Bank's "Doing Business" report highlights that complex tax regulations and labor laws disproportionately affect smaller enterprises, often stifling their growth potential. This paper presents findings derived from a qualitative research mapping of the BRICS entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE), Grounded in Daniel Isenberg’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, this paper based its findings on qualitative data obtained from BRICS countries. Using targeted keyword searches, data was gathered from secondary sources, including Scopus, Web of Science, OECD reports, and government websites. The analysis reveals that while governments aim to stimulate SME growth, many inadvertently impose compliance issues that suffocate these enterprises. The study recommends that governments review restrictive regulations and implement initiatives to enhance SME performance, ultimately contributing to broader economic growth. By addressing these regulatory challenges, a more vibrant and resilient SME sector can emerge, capable of driving innovation and job creation.
Smallholder farms are vital to Eswatini's agricultural economy, blending traditional knowledge with entrepreneurial principles to drive sustainability and innovation. This study examines the entrepreneurial journey of eleven smallholder farmers, exploring their traits, processes, and competencies essential for sustainable agribusiness. Despite limited formal training, these agri-entrepreneurs demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking in opportunity recognition, venture creation, and business growth. Key competencies identified include business and managerial skills, market understanding, innovation adoption, interpersonal abilities, risk management, and sustainability orientation. Findings reveal that while smallholder farmers are motivated by both opportunity and necessity, their approach to entrepreneurship is often reactive rather than proactive, with limited use of feasibility assessments and structured financial planning. Additionally, access to capital remains a challenge, with a preference for equity funding over debt financing. The study highlights the role of government and institutional support in enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities, advocating for targeted training, financial incentives, and infrastructure improvements. By bridging theory with practice, this research contributes to the discourse on sustainable agricultural entrepreneurship and offers practical recommendations for fostering innovation and resilience among smallholder farmers in Eswatini and beyond.
This study explores the mediating role of entrepreneurial bricolage in the relationship between psychological capital and entrepreneurial success among microentrepreneurs in Kampala, Uganda. A cross-sectional survey design and quantitative approach were employed to collect data from 353 and analyzed through SPSS 23 and AMOS. The findings indicate that entrepreneurial bricolage plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between psychological capital and entrepreneurial success. In otherwords, entrepreneurial bricolage is a conduit through which psychological capital connects to entrepreneurial success. The study specifically focused on Kampala district, as it has the largest concentration of microentrepreneurs, meaning the results may not be generalized to the entire country. The study highlights that microentrepreneurs who cultivate and refine their mental skills, while strategically harnessing both internal resources, such as personal experiences, and external resources, like networks, are more likely to attain business success. This research contributes to entrepreneurship literature by highlighting the dual role of psychological capital and resourcefulness in promoting microenterprise success in resource-constrained environments. Additionally, the study emphasizes the role of psychological capital in shaping microentrepreneurs' decisions on how to creatively combine limited resources to achieve both business and personal goals, drawing on the principles of Entrepreneurial Bricolage theory.
L’entrepreneuriat des réfugiés représente un grand défi, mais aussi de nombreuses opportunités inexploitées. Cette recherche vise à contribuer aux discussions sur la co-conception et la reconfiguration des écosystèmes entrepreneuriaux afin d’inclure les groupes sous-représentés en examinant l’intégration dans l’écosystème des femmes entrepreneurs sociales réfugiées (FRSE) en France et son influence sur les barrières institutionnelles. Basée sur 46 entretiens avec des FRSE et des prestataires de services, et fondée sur un cadre d’intégration mixte et une approche du capital social, l’étude révèle que les FRSE ont besoin d’accéder à un soutien juridique institutionnel, à des réseaux inter- et intra-écosystèmes, à des financements, à des structures de soutien public, à des programmes de soutien régionaux et à des initiatives de soutien inclusives. En conceptualisant un écosystème entrepreneurial durable et inclusif, cette recherche propose un modèle intégratif pour soutenir leur succès.
Статья посвящена анализу особенностей функционирования малых инновационных предприятий (МИП) в России и за рубежом. Рассматриваются законодательные основы создания МИП, формы поддержки со стороны государства и университетов, а также ключевые проблемы развития. Проведен сравнительный анализ моделей функционирования МИП в России, США, Европе и Азии. Особое внимание уделено выявлению лучших международных практик, которые могут быть использованы для совершенствования российского механизма поддержки вузовских стартапов
The article analyzes the functioning features of small innovative enterprises (SIEs) in Russia and abroad. The legislative foundations for the creation of SIEs, forms of government and university support, and key development challenges are considered. A comparative analysis of the functioning models of SIEs in Russia, the USA, Europe, and Asia is presented. Special attention is paid to identifying the best international practices that can be used to improve the Russian mechanism for supporting university startups
Does Africa need Entrepreneurial Ecosystems (EE) thinking? This paper argues that EE thinking is not a priority for Africa. The data is clear that Africa already has too many entrepreneurs. Further boosting the number of entrepreneurs in Africa seems like a step in the wrong direction. Instead, Africa should support the “right” kind of entrepreneurs, while reducing the total number of entrepreneurs. Two theories suggest that EE theory is the opposite of what African development needs: first, lessons from the technological catch-up that worked well for the development of South East Asia; and second, Schumpeterian growth theory which makes policy recommendations conditional on a country’s distance-to-frontier.
Purpose
The aim of this research is to unravel how the entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) elements can be configured to generate a higher density of knowledge-intensive entrepreneurship (KIE) dedicated to blended value creation (BVC).
Design/methodology/approach
Based on two asymmetric techniques, necessary condition analysis (NCA) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), we conducted a quantitative analysis with Brazilian projects participating in the Innovative Research in Small Businesses Program, an initiative dedicated to nurturing KIE in the State of São Paulo, Brazil.
Findings
The results show six paths related to EE elements driving BVC with adequate consistency and coverage. No EE dimension appeared as a necessary condition to promote higher levels of BVC. On the other hand, findings highlight the “market” and “innovation” dimensions as core causal conditions in three of six configurational paths. Surprisingly, the absence of the “regulatory environment” and “human capital” dimensions appeared as a core condition in three alternative configurations associated with improved BVC levels.
Research limitations/implications
The study contributes to the literature on EE and BVC in the context of a developing country. However, our sample’s specificity may limit our findings’ generalizability to EE embedded in different macro-level contexts.
Practical implications
The paper is addressed to academicians, practitioners, policy decision-makers and educators. Given the regulatory environment’s low significance, practitioners can leverage government initiatives and programs that support small companies with environmental and social significance. Additionally, the human capital shortage underscores the potential to implement more flexible work arrangements to facilitate BVC in entrepreneurial firms.
Originality/value
This is the first study that analyzes the interaction between KIE, EE and BVC. The findings suggest that creating social, environmental and economic value is loosely associated with several key pillars of EE within the examined sample, highlighting low levels of ecosystem “readiness” to support knowledge-intensive ventures.
This study utilised a developed framework to identify the types of research collaborations within a university's entrepreneurial ecosystem and the perception of academics on intra- and inter-departmental collaborations. Using primary and secondary data from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Nigeria, the secondary data included 151 published articles from the 3rd University of Benin Annual Research Conference, while the primary data consisted of responses from 90 randomly selected academics across 10 faculties. Among the 151 articles, 14 were authored individually, 77 by authors from the same department, 22 by authors from different departments within the same faculty, 7 by authors from different disciplines, 18 involved authors from different universities, 7 from university-industry collaborations, 4 from university-government collaborations, and 2 from international collaborations. The findings revealed a high level of intra- and inter-departmental collaborations but a low level of interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaborations. Given the promising nature of the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, it is recommended that scholars at UNIBEN increase their engagement in interdisciplinary and cross-institutional research collaborations to enhance the university’s innovative capacity and its ranking in research and development. Keywords: Research collaborations, academic entrepreneurial ecosystems, innovation
This study aims at analysing the socio-ecological issues and socio-intercultural factors influencing the entrepreneurship ecosystems. It draws from the assumption that the social and cultural issues indistinctly conform to the circumstances and conditions that require the entrepreneurship ecosystems. The method employed is the meta-analytical related with the reflective and descriptive analysis based on the literature review of conceptual, theoretical, and empirical studies. The analysis leads to conclude that the socio-ecological and socio-intercultural factors conform to the conditions and circumstances of the entrepreneurship ecosystems.
In Italy, the debate on industrial development and economic growth incentives highlights several key themes. Family capitalism celebrated for its resilience, is simultaneously critiqued for curbing innovation and growth potential (Colli et al., 2003; González et al., 2012; Yanagisako, 2020); Medium-Sized Enterprises stand out for their competitiveness, yet their representation ? only 0.5% of firms ? limits their macroeconomic impact (OECD, 2012). Meanwhile, innovation, a cornerstone of sustainable growth, remains stifled by insufficient entrepreneurial support and inadequate public incentives. Finally, capital shortages perpetuate a systemic barrier to industrial expansion, further constraining the nation's economic trajectory. Within this environment, High-Growth Firms (HGFs), or "Gazelles," exhibit exceptional competitiveness despite comprising just 0.2% of manufacturing and 0.4% of service firms in Italy. Defined as firms with over 10 employees and annual employment growth exceeding 20% for three consecutive years, HGFs have been extensively studied (Birch, 1981; Henrekson and Johansson, 2010) yet key growth drivers and the role of innovation ecosystems remain underexplored. To address this, a bibliometric analysis of 2012-2021 publications identified 283 highly cited articles, segmented into pre- and post-Industry 4.0/Horizon 2020 periods. Findings highlight three drivers of HGF competitiveness: technology investment for productivity, knowledge networks via open innovation, reskilling initiatives for human capital. Industry 4.0 technologies have expanded expertise access, reduced market entry barriers, and emphasized circular economy practices, fostering ambidextrous growth. To sustain HGFs, industrial policies must adapt and expand to meet innovation demands, leveraging these insights to replicate success across evolving economic landscapes.
Entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) are networks of interconnected actors and resources—such as businesses, institutions, and support organizations—designed to foster innovation and economic growth, primarily for locally based entrepreneurs in venture development. However, their inclusivity for diverse entrepreneurs, particularly transnational immigrant entrepreneurs (TIEs), remains limited. TIEs navigate dual embeddedness in both home and host countries but often find traditional EEs ill-suited to their needs. Despite an ideological commitment to inclusivity, EEs are typically structured around the experiences of native-born entrepreneurs, prioritizing rapid returns on investment. This focus marginalizes immigrant entrepreneurs, who are pushed to regularly draw on transnational networks, ethnic enclaves, and culturally aligned community organizations for support. These parallel systems provide crucial resources that mainstream EEs overlook. As global migration increases, driven by conflict, economic instability, and environmental crises, the need for EEs to adapt and provide culturally appropriate support for all actors becomes urgent. This chapter advocates for a paradigm shift, calling for the recognition and integration of alternative networks and non-mainstream contributors within EEs. By promoting diversity and offering tailored transnational support, EEs can move beyond local biases to create genuinely inclusive environments that enable entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to succeed.
Entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) are multilevel phenomena crucial for understanding and promoting productive entrepreneurship and economic development. The key insight of this study is that there is an actionable path to build and manage multilevel, longitudinal datasets for EE research, facilitating deeper insights into patterns and dynamics across different levels-often missed in single-source and cross-sectional data studies. It guides the integration of data spanning founders, firms, and socioeconomic indicators from diverse sources, including archival records and self-reported data. Combining and triangulating these sources fills a significant methodological gap, supporting robust empirical EE analyses and enabling evidence-based policy formulation.
This chapter explores the dynamics of strategic collaborations within entrepreneurial ecosystems, emphasizing their significance in fostering innovation, business growth, and sustainability. It examines the role of these collaborations in overcoming resource constraints, enhancing market access, and facilitating knowledge exchange. The chapter delves into the benefits and challenges of strategic partnerships, providing insights on collaboration models, key actors, and the evolving influence of technology and digital platforms. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to adopt effective collaboration strategies that leverage cross-industry partnerships, AI, and open innovation to remain competitive. The future of strategic collaborations is shaped by the increasing emphasis on sustainability, social impact, and data-driven decision-making. Through a comprehensive analysis of collaboration metrics and governance, this chapter highlights the importance of measuring and optimizing collaborative efforts in entrepreneurial ecosystems for long-term success.
The use of strategic planning models in various industrial sectors has become commonplace. In fact, the business environment includes economic infrastructure, the health of the administrative system, social security, stability in economic policies, laws and regulations, the quality of the judiciary, etc., which have a direct impact on the performance of companies, but their change goes beyond the authority of corporate executives. Accordingly, due to the importance of the business environment, several international reports on the ranking of the business environment of countries are published every year, each of which uses a special approach to report on the business environment of countries. Therefore, due to the importance of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, in this research, an attempt is made to examine the analysis of the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Turkmen ethnic jewelry using the SWOT method. The aim of this study, considering the nomadic life of Turkmen tribes from ancient times and the lack of written sources on nomadic life, is to refer to sources of knowledge on how to produce and use Turkmen jewelry limited to the sayings and hearings of the elderly and those currently producing. On the other hand, this research can be considered as an innovation research that has been analyzed for the first time in Iran by the analysis of ergonomic entrepreneurship ecosystem of Turkmen ethnic jewelry. The research method is a case study in the form of qualitative and quantitative methods using descriptive-analytical methods. To collect the required information, library studies and field studies have been used. In the first phase, interviews were conducted with people who have jewelry workshops to gain a community-based perspective. After consulting them, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of Turkmen jewelry production were identified based on the SWOT model. Then, according to the experts, the weight was given and then, according to the existing realities of jewelry production, an attempt was made to provide executive strategies to get out of the current situation. The experimental master of Turkmen jewelry making was interviewed as an expert in this field and also 2 professors were interviewed as university experts. In the next step, AHP method was used to calculate the weight of each index and rank them in such a way that a questionnaire was designed to be appropriate to the obtained indicators and was provided to handicraft experts at the university level. This research is applied in terms of purpose and analytical in terms of descriptive nature. The research findings showed that there is a high potential for the development of this industry in the region, so that one of the important opportunities in this sector is the diversity of Turkmen jewelry, which can play an important role in attracting more customers due to today's competitive market. An important issue in today's business is innovation in diversity, especially in industry. One of the advantages of jewelry is that it is handmade, and in the new era, because it requires a small fee to set it up, a large number of young people in the region can enter the industry and lead to entrepreneurship. One of the advantages of this industry is the great elegance in this sector. This industry attracts a lot of customers' attention due to its high elegance, and it can be considered as a competitive advantage. It is also unique in that it can be said that due to the characteristics of the jewelry in this area, it can be said that it can be seen in few places in the world and its usability is another important point of this industry that is used in the new era. Jewelry has become commonplace. One of the serious issues that threatens the industry at the regional level is the presence of brokers, lack of effective marketing, lack of support for manufacturing workshops, low number of craftsmen in this art, buying intermediaries at low prices and selling them at multiple prices to exporting countries. Use of this product by Turkmen relatives and Mass production by neighboring countries, the tendency of domestic consumers to modern products and the economic situation and the imposition of sanctions can affect the market of this industry, but it can be said that given the opportunities and strengths in this sector can overcome these threats. The results indicate that Turkmen tribes are the most unique ornaments with the highest weight with the most priority strategy in the field of handicrafts. As a result, activists in the field of handicrafts under study should use their strengths to make the most of the opportunities ahead.
Amid global disruptions, technology fascinates entrepreneurs. So, diluting indoctrinated assumptions is crucial. Entrepreneurship education(EE) is key to saving the future/ organizations. Thematic analysis of problem/opportunity statements of 510 start-up ventures from students of multiple geographies reflected 10 themes. Frequency and prominence associated with respective themes revealed Incongruity as the dominant aspect, rather than Technology. The most frequent theme echoes the common denominator of global attention, which disrupted every organization between 2020-24. As key findings, insights are attained to transform organizations amid disruption and to reinforce EE-related literature for policy purposes.
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