Entrepreneurial support ecosystems in emerging economies: a study on the strategy-making processes

Purpose Despite the growing academic interest, studies on entrepreneurship support generally adopt a merely descriptive logic and ignore their context. Additionally, there is a lack of research exploring entrepreneurial support organizations and entrepreneurial support ecosystems from a managerial perspective, especially in emerging economies. Thus, this study investigates the conditions under which and how entrepreneurship support strategies are developed in university ecosystems of emerging economies. Design/methodology/approach We integrate the literature on the entrepreneurial support ecosystem, strategy-making and the entrepreneurial university to conduct an exploratory case study in the ecosystem of Stellenbosch University, recognized for its excellence in South Africa. Findings Strategic patterns emerge from complex interactions and information flows within the ecosystem. Clear objectives at the micro and meso-levels facilitate performance measurement and the orchestration of the entrepreneurial support ecosystem. Conflicts and influence systems are crucial drivers in decision-making processes and should be considered in strategy-making. A meso-level governance system that promotes active information flow between different levels and actors within the ecosystem helps overcome resource scarcity. Institutional and financial pressures to establish an entrepreneurial university can hinder entrepreneurship support when financial objectives prevail. Originality/value This study enhances the understanding of how strategic patterns unfold from dynamic relationships among different actors in university-based entrepreneurial ecosystems. We offer theoretical propositions and a conceptual framework that advance the literature, provide managerial guidance and can help formulate public policies.