A holistic approach to the evolution of an entrepreneurial ecosystem: An exploratory study of academic spin-offs

Borrowing nomenclature and concepts from ecology and evolutionary biology, we apply descriptive exploratory methods to extend our understanding about the complex dynamics of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. We take a holistic approach to ecosystem analysis, and we analyze the evolution of multiple activities (i.e., entry, exit, growth, and survival) within an entrepreneurial ecosystem and the interactions of these activities with the ecosystem actors and resource providers. Applying our approach to nearly the entire population of academic spin-offs in Norway from 2000 to 2015, we generate a number of important findings. By characterizing the dynamics of an entrepreneurial ecosystem, we take a major step towards theorizing the ecosystem perspective. Our findings have important implications for public policies targeted to promote academic entrepreneurship.

Automated summary

Drawing from ecology and evolutionary biology, this study utilizes descriptive exploratory methods to enhance our understanding of the dynamics in an entrepreneurial ecosystem, taking a holistic approach to analyzing the evolution of various activities and interactions within the system. By applying this approach to academic spin-offs in Norway, significant findings were generated, advancing the theorization of ecosystem perspective and providing insights for public policies aimed at promoting academic entrepreneurship.