Showing papers in "International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management in 2014"

Are Youth Really Different? : New Beliefs for Old Practices in Entrepreneurship

Abstract: This article reviews and systematises prior studies focusing on the differences between young and old people in entrepreneurship This study highlights that the young are different in several areas: accumulation of resources and skills; psychological, cognitive and motivational attributes; and reaction to influences from the environment, culture and norms This article provides guidance about promising avenues for future research and encourages policy attention for the field of youth entrepreneurship

University-based entrepreneurship ecosystems: a global study of six educational institutions

Abstract: This paper examines the development and sustainable growth of university-based entrepreneurship ecosystems. General patterns emerge from the qualitative review of six detailed case studies that have evolved over a minimum of two decades: three located in the USA; and one each in Latin America, Europe and Asia. It is apparent that the development of each ecosystem has occurred via alternative pathways. Although there is remarkable convergence with respect to the elements the six ecosystems have in common, there is significant variability in the strength and importance of the various elements of each of the six ecosystems. The paper highlights seven key success factors that enable each of the six universities in this study to achieve a sustainable and high-impact entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The young, the fast and the furious: A study about the triggers and impediments of youth entrepreneurship

Abstract: Existing literature argues that young entrepreneurs lack the human, financial and social capital to establish a growing business. Since opportunity costs for them are low, there are also a few triggers for start-up entrepreneurship, which brings us to our research question: What are the triggers for starting a business at a young age and how do young entrepreneurs mitigate the lack of education, experience, knowledge and other critical resources in the start-up process?Twelve entrepreneurs younger than 25 were interviewed, although they clearly lack the human, social and financial capital needed to start a new business, they do not experience this as a disadvantage. Young entrepreneurs deal with these issues by using bootstrapping and effectuation mechanisms to accommodate financial capital constraints and mobilise social support from their parents and other entrepreneurial family members and friends. By taking part in all kinds of small-scale ventures and by being granted access to additional opportunities and introductions to new customers by senior managers of established companies on the basis of their originality, creativity and energy, young entrepreneurs acquire the experiences and the contacts they need for their next entrepreneurial step.

A Six-Step Approach to Business Model Innovation

Abstract: In both theory and practice, business model innovation is acknowledged as an important means to gain a competitive edge. Designing a new business model, however, requires profound knowledge, experience and skills. To support the task, practitioners can rely on a set of techniques, namely cases, component-based approaches, taxonomies, conceptual models, causal loop diagrams and design patterns. We argue that these techniques only provide valuable support during specific steps of the design process. In addition, there is a tendency towards focusing on model-internal consistency while neglecting the organisation’s actual mission and external business environment. Therefore, this study proposes a complementary six-step approach to business model innovation, which is based on the principles of ‘networked thinking’. This holistic and systemic approach comprises features of established techniques and explicates assumptions about the organisation’s specific business situation. It gives entrepreneurs, decision makers and managers a better handle on structuring, communicating and evaluating different business model designs.

Incumbents' responses to disruptive business model innovation: the moderating role of technology vs. market-driven innovation

Abstract: Current research argues that incumbents should respond to disruptive innovation by setting up a separate business unit. This recommendation stems from research predominantly carried out on disruptive technologies in high-tech industries but whether incumbents respond differently to other types of disruptive business model innovations and whether the type of response leads to a difference in performance have not been empirically analysed. By collecting data from 88 strategic business units (SBUs) and dividing the sample into incumbents responding to disruptive technology against those responding to disruptive market-driven innovations, the study shows that the latter type of firms can succeed in managing both disruptive and sustaining innovations without setting up structurally separated business units. We discuss the implications of our results and highlight areas for further research.

Comparison of perceived barriers to entrepreneurship in Eastern and Western European countries

Abstract: This qualitative study among 591 business students from four European countries investigated cross-country differences in the kind of barriers people perceive to business start-up. In line with institutional theory, the most important perceived barriers in all countries related to regulative structures (lack of money) and cognitive conditions (lack of skills). Normative structures, defined as national culture, did not explain cross-country differences in perceived risk as start-up barrier. In Norway and The Netherlands, students reported risk perceptions more often than in Romania and Russia, whereas the latter countries are known to be more uncertainty avoidant. These results aid in developing a theory of entrepreneurial barriers, which could be used to extend current entrepreneurial intentions theories in order to predict actual start-up behaviour better. Concerning practical implications, results indicate that business start-up can be stimulated through improving regulative and cognitive institutional structures, but national differences need to be taken into account.

Service-dominant logic and the business model concept: toward a conceptual integration

Abstract: Companies are recently affected by an ongoing change of customer behaviour. Customers are no longer solely interested in product offerings but call for a provision of service solutions that accompany these offerings. This development forces companies to rethink their basic business logic by paying more attention to the crucial service aspect. This change goes along with a need for companies to redefine their idea of how to create and capture value. Against this background, we ask: how does an increased focus on service influence a company’s business model? We examine this question based on the service-dominant logic concept as well as the business model concept and discuss possibilities how to adapt the business model to a service-dominant business logic. As a result, we develop a set of propositions describing the influence of a company’s service-dominant business logic on basic elements of a company’s business model. Our research shows that a fundamental re-design of the business model is necessary to successfully implement service-dominant logic.

Exploring intergenerational influence on entrepreneurial intention: the mediating role of perceived desirability and perceived feasibility

Abstract: Children of self-employed parents are twice as likely as other children to become self-employed themselves, as family background exerts a significant influence on the values, attitudes, and behaviour one adopts. This study explores how entrepreneurial intentions are transmitted across generations within families. Using the data from 805 respondents and expanding upon Shapero and Sokol's model of intention in entrepreneurial events (SEE), we analyse the role of an entrepreneurial family background as an intergenerational influence on entrepreneurial intention and the underlying mediating effect of perceived desirability and perceived feasibility in starting a business.

Student entrepreneurship, creativity and success. How much does knowledge heterogeneity really matter?

Abstract: The present research points out to investigate how knowledge heterogeneity benefits creativity and innovation of student entrepreneurs. Some authors stressed that the knowledge and social networks are fundamental elements to generate new ideas and inspire future entrepreneurs. Having analysed the data extracted by Kelley et al. (2012) on 300 Master students joining economics and biotech faculties in Europe, through the application of structural equation modelling by using IBM SPSS Amos, we confirmed the importance of social network so as to acquire efficiently new knowledge and to improve innovation performance.

Entrepreneurial intentions of university students: an international comparison between African, European and Canadian students

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to compare the entrepreneurial intentions of university students in North Africa (Algeria) with those of students in Canada and Europe (France and Belgium), and to examine differences with regard to psychological, sociocultural and economic factors influencing these intentions. Analyses on the sample as a whole confirm the relevancy of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) proposed by Ajzen (1991). When we differentiate among cultural groups, results were fairly similar for Canadian and European students. However, no TPB elements were significant for the Algerian students, or more significant than the control variables. We discuss the need to consider cultural factors to explain entrepreneurial intentions. Moreover, given the socioeconomic climate in Algeria, we hypothesise that among Algerian university students, entrepreneurship is motivated by necessity rather than opportunity.

Creating successful business model: lessons for social entrepreneurship

Abstract: This paper draws on a particular case of social entrepreneurship, by which we have made an effort to outline context, dimensions and challenges for social entrepreneurship. While social entrepreneurship is not a new phenomenon, in the last 15 years, it is growing extensively with a new breed of entrepreneur developing solutions to social problems. This paper brings insight of creating a successful business model in social entrepreneurship with the help of the case. The case is about a European international company, Vestergaard Frandsen, which specialises in disease control along with complex emergency response products. This company is directed by a unique humanitarian entrepreneurship business model in which humanitarian responsibility is in its core business and their business model is based on ‘profit for purpose’. This organisation is involved in innovating products and concepts which are more useful for the developing world. This separates them from other companies who innovate for developed countries which are wealthier regions of the world and then adapt it for other developing countries. This paper focuses on how social entrepreneurship can extend boundaries and function in different countries. This paper concludes by identifying the needs for generating financially sustainable innovation and a continuously evolving business model for social entrepreneurship.

A morphological analysis-based creativity approach to identify and develop ideas for BMI: a case study of a high-tech manufacturing company

Abstract: Practice has shown that new businesses have succeeded in changing the structure of market sectors and opening positions of power through business model innovation. The reasons have been many, but include new technological possibilities, innovative products, changes in the supply chain management, optimised cost structures and unique resources. Regarding entrepreneurship and innovation management, it has become of interest to learn how such potentials can be unlocked and implemented using business model innovations. Here, the development of ideas plays an important role as it usually the first stage of each innovation and utilisation process. However, to date, research in the field of business models has not sufficiently answered the question. While this phase of development is assigned great significance, methodological support regarding existing procedures and process models have not, however, been given. Thus, the subject of this paper is the development of a method of systematically generating business model ideas based on morphological thinking. This includes guaranteeing consistency of the ideas developed as well as structured selection. The method was applied within a high-tech company.

Born global companies founded by young entrepreneurs. A multiple case study

Abstract: Based on a multiple case study research, the paper aims at providing some first evidence on the phenomenon of ‘born global’ companies (BGCs), i.e., companies that internationalise their activities from inception or shortly thereafter, founded by young entrepreneurs, by analysing those age-related factors that facilitate or hinder young entrepreneurs to start a BGC. An in-depth qualitative analysis has been performed based on eight BGCs founded by Italian young entrepreneurs. Results highlight that young entrepreneurs, being more financially constrained than old entrepreneurs, tend to move towards countries where those resources are more easily and widely available. Moreover, we found that young entrepreneurs seem to invest heavily on their social capital to countervail the young age effect. Finally, results suggest that – for young entrepreneurs – prior experience abroad has amplified relevance in the internationalisation process of a company.

Incubation as co-creation: case study of proactive technology business development

Abstract: The paper reports the findings of an exploratory case study focusing on the management of business incubation through the theoretical lens of 'co-creation'. This approach conceptualises business incubation as a process that the incubation managers attempt to orchestrate through active collaboration with the other actors involved in the incubation process. Based on the reflexive action research strategy, which provides an insider view of the incubation managers, the study illustrates how they pro-actively seek to engage the incubation parties in continuous dialogue concerning business development. The case study illustrates how the construction of a joint sphere of interaction and mutual influence among the incubation parties is a key management activity. Furthermore, the wide ranging catalyst role of incubation managers in particular is central to the perspective of co-creation of value to the client's business.

Are we fostering opportunity entrepreneurship for women? Exploring policies and programmes in China and India

Abstract: This paper critically explores a variety of female entrepreneurship policies and programmes in China and India (examples include incubator projects as well as training, education, credit, and other financial programmes), providing a much-needed overview of the current state of support for women entrepreneurs in these countries and which economic sectors and actors (governments, non-governmental organisations, and private firms) are most engaged in providing this support. The paper also evaluates which types and structures of programmes are more likely to promote upward mobility and opportunity entrepreneurship. Finally, the paper presents an exploratory framework for considering five key characteristics of female entrepreneurship programmes (provision of money, goods, or services; skills training; business development services; professional networking services; and/or professional mentoring) and their relationship to necessity and opportunity entrepreneurship. It also gauges the inclusivity of the programmes. Further research can build upon this framework and develop a more sophisticated classification system.

Dynamic capabilities as drivers of business model innovation – from the perspective of SMEs in mature industries

Abstract: This explorative paper emphasises the drivers of business model innovation. Business model renewal may contribute to improved adaptation to the environment, enhance competitive advantage and facilitate entrepreneurship. I elaborate on the antecedents of and especially the role that dynamic capabilities may play in facilitating business model innovation. The investigations build upon longitudinal, in-depth case studies of the value chain within the food industry. The findings imply that SMEs holding specific dynamic capabilities are more likely to succeed in changing their business models for entrepreneurial purposes.

Creative industries and their role in the creative value chain – a comparative study of SMEs in Canada and Thailand

Abstract: The terms ‘creative economy’ and ‘creative industries’ refer to emerging models of development that play a major role in both creativity and in the intellectual capital for economic development, while the creative value chain is one of the most straightforward and widely recognised methods used in analysing the structure and function of creative industries. This paper has three objectives: 1) to identify the role of SMEs in the creative value chain; 2) to compare the role of SMEs in the creative value chain in Canada and Thailand; 3) to identify the challenges that Thai SMEs face in the creative value chain and to see what lessons can be learned from Canadian SMEs. This research is one of the first studies to compare the role of SMEs in the creative value chain, especially in the context of a comparative study between a developed and a developing country.

Business model innovation in the retail industry: growth by serving the silver generation

Abstract: How can an established retailer face the challenge of an ageing society? We study the components of business model innovation in the German retail landscape that are implemented on the sales floor to cater to the needs of the silver generation segment. Applying a multiple case-study approach our analysis suggests that the five firms under study focus on three specific areas: 1) store layout and physical environment; 2) intensified customer service; 3) increase in ‘senior-friendly’ product offerings. Improvements in these areas help retail firms increase the value proposition, improve customer relationships, and augment revenues. In total, our research highlights how retailers can alter their business models to better meet the needs of the growing silver generation segment.

Innovation empathy: a framework for customer-oriented lean innovation

Abstract: ®This research focuses on customer-oriented lean innovation and introduces the innovation empathy framework that has been developed for the early phases of innovation processes. The framework is based on the idea that increased empathy towards customers helps innovators gain a better understanding of customers’ problems and needs, and increases

The alchemy of student entrepreneurs: towards a model of entrepreneurial maturity

Abstract: This paper establishes a seven-step theory of entrepreneurship centering on student as actual entrepreneur rather than building on a growing body of entrepreneurial intention research. Historically, a paucity of research fails to explore and discern differences between the student and archetypal entrepreneur (entrepreneur) owing to the popular narrative of entrepreneurs following the journey of college dropouts. From the perspective of this research, the student entrepreneurs are not students merely attending entrepreneurial classes but conduct either a business on/near campus or lead a campus enterprise (voluntary association) while simultaneously attending formal university award courses. The theory builds on depth interviews with students and entrepreneurs focusing on lived experiences as entrepreneurs. Interviews derive indicators and cues from case studies of entrepreneurs and foster elicitation of the cognitive skills and the unconscious drives of student entrepreneurs. Research findings guide impli...

Exploring gender issues in entrepreneurship: what about students and recent graduates?

Abstract: Research on entrepreneurship is a relatively new area. Entrepreneurship is still poorly studied and has a low level of legitimacy in the emerging academic field as female entrepreneurship. Focusing research about entrepreneurship on the intersection of the constructs of individuals, opportunities, modes of organisation and the environment, will define the field and enhance its legitimacy. However, it has been carefully assessed in recent decades. Thus, this research aims to explore the literature on the barriers to practical entrepreneurship, to exemplify the factors that encourage and discourage a business start up and to establish to what extent there is a level playing field in female young entrepreneurship. The findings led us to theorise that the close connection between informal social networks and female entrepreneurship may represent a fundamental element to straighten female entrepreneurship attitude.

Team Conflict contributing to Entrepreneurial Learning: understanding conflict as positive within an Effectual Problem Space

Abstract: The impact of team conflict seems to depend upon context. Entrepreneurship literature suggests that learning from diverse perspectives in teams can contribute to entrepreneurial action (Harper 2008; West III 2007; Williams Middleton 2010), while management literature has shown that conflict in teams negatively affects creativity (Jehn et al. 2010). Recent research streams suggest that entrepreneurial learning might be better understood by applying an effectual logic perspective, instead of causal logic (Sarasvathy and Venkataraman 2011). This causes us to question whether conflict is experienced similarly in entrepreneurial versus managerial teams. We suggest negative consequences of team conflict found in management literature may be due to the causal logic underlying this literature, and thus not readily applicable to entrepreneurial learning. Through exploring relationships between team work, conflict in teams and effectuation, we propose that positive learning outcomes can emerge from experience of team conflict within an effectual and uncertain problem space.

Linking intuition and entrepreneurial intention: a comparative study among French and US student entrepreneurs

Abstract: This study tested whether there is a link between cognitive style and entrepreneurial intention of undergraduate students. We first tested a model of entrepreneurial intention, based on the theory of planned behaviour, explaining how selected sets of students’ beliefs influence their attitude (personal attractiveness) towards entrepreneurship and perceived behavioural control (feasibility). Then, we tested how attitude and perceived behavioural control influence intention to start a new venture. Linear regressions were conducted on data from 614 undergraduate students from France and the USA. The main results show that students with a preference for intuition had a more positive attitude towards entrepreneurship and higher entrepreneurial intention. Those with a preference for deliberation had higher perceived control.

Intrapreneurial sensemaking: the case of a reenvisioned school of professional studies

Abstract: This case is based on a management consulting project during the spring of 2013 at a small faith-based university located in the Western USA. The authors utilised a participatory sensemaking approach to develop a reenvisioned mission for a newly-independent school of professional studies within the university. While the objectives of the project were broadly related to strategy formulation, this case focuses only on the development of the new school’s mission. Emphasis is placed on the social construction of meaning in an intrapreneurial context as an enabler for reenvisioning purpose and strategic direction.

World class sustainable product innovation: a case study

Abstract: Frequent searching for a great solution implies taking a risk on a start-up company, an entrepreneur, an inventor or a smaller partner. Knowing how to achieve sustainable innovation can create huge results. This teaching case addresses differing innovative growth strategies in a fiercely competitive environment adopted by Mondelēz International, formerly known as Kraft Foods, Incorporated. Overall, Mondelēz International aggressively seeks win-win partnerships and alliances for solutions that create mutual value and sustainable product innovation.

The role of skills acquisition centres in entrepreneurial growth and job creation in Nigeria

Abstract: Our educational curriculum appears not to be meeting the skills needed in today’s job market. While much literature explains the necessary inclusion of subtle skill instruction in our formal education, empirical evidence on its permeation and levels of success is limited. This study is guided by three research questions: can training improve productivity, lead to increased entrepreneurs and reduced unemployment in Nigeria? A qualitative research design was used. 110 out of 360 trainers and participant of skills acquisition programme of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in Delta State for 2010 and 2011 was sampled. Descriptive statistics was used for inference from field data and chi-square was used to test the hypothesis. The result reveals that skills acquisition institutions have a great part to play in job creation and growth of entrepreneurial activities in Nigeria. The study discovered that the main problems confronting skills acquisition in Nigeria are capital for setting up the trainees after the programme, policy inconsistencies, corruption, and poor project targeting. The study recommended proper funding of skills training by the states and the inclusion of skills training in the school curriculum for sustainable development.