Purpose: This study examines the dynamics of innovation
ecosystems across developed and emerging markets through in-depth case
analysis, focusing on regional characteristics, stakeholder perspectives, and
entrepreneurial challenges in diverse contexts.
Design/methodology/approach: This study employed a multiple-case study
methodology, conducting in-depth stakeholder interviews (n=13) across four
distinct regional contexts: Africa (n=6), Austin (n=4), Boston (n=2), and
Europe (n=1). Participants included entrepreneurs, investors, accelerators, and
academic stakeholders, providing rich insights into ecosystem dynamics across
16 dimensions of entrepreneurial activity.
Findings: Each regional case reveals distinct ecosystem
characteristics and challenges. African cases highlight demographic advantages
and innovation potential constrained by infrastructure limitations. Austin
cases demonstrate strong community collaboration with resource access
challenges. Boston cases illustrate institutional strength balanced against
high costs and cultural barriers. The European case shows traditional industry
transformation struggles. Common themes across cases include the critical importance
of product-market fit, challenges to accessing funding, and the varying roles
of academic institutions.
Research
limitations and implications:
This exploratory case study offers rich contextual insights but has limited
generalizability. The findings establish a foundation for larger-scale
comparative research and theory development in innovation ecosystem analysis.
Practical
implications:
The cases provide valuable insights for entrepreneurs considering market entry
strategies, investors evaluating regional opportunities, and policymakers
seeking to understand the challenges of ecosystem development. Each case
provides specific lessons about regional entrepreneurial environments.
