This book presents multidisciplinary research that expands our understanding of the innovation system (IS) and the entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) perspectives on regional economic development. It critically reviews the two concepts and explores the promise and the limits of bridging IS and EE, particularly as applied outside of the bubbling global hubs or to the types of entrepreneurship different from the high-growth variety.

This is a guide to understanding entrepreneurial ecosystems: what they are, why they matter, and to whom they matter. Ben Spigel explores this popular new theory of economic development, locating the intellectual roots of ecosystems, explaining the practices and processes that allow ecosystems to support the creation and growth of innovative entrepreneurial firms.

This book addresses the intersections of entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainability in food systems, and presents high-quality research illustrating the central role that food consumption and production play in achieving sustainability goals. Entrepreneurship and innovation have become particularly relevant aspects in the European Union (EU), especially since the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were announced in 2015. In many cases, innovations tend to arise from small and medium-sized enterprises, and from completely new entrepreneurial endeavors. This book represents essential reading for researchers and young academics seeking to reduce disparities and inequalities in food production and consumptions patterns. By encouraging sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation, it will also help young scholars find support for their startup ideas.

The concept of 'entrepreneurial ecosystems' has emerged as a means for theorizing and making policy-decisions concerning entrepreneurship and economic development within and across cities and regions. Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Cities and Regions assembles original contributions from scholars across the world to provide an in-depth analysis of a concept that has the capability to capture a dynamic global economy with entrepreneurial innovation at the crux of its future development. It addresses wider issues concerning the evolution of new forms of industrial organisation. The book develops an agenda and understanding that aims to build upon the early explosion of interest within academic, policy, and practice circles by providing new and important insights that contribute to knowledge, direct future investigations, and to increase the effectiveness of research-based policy and practice. Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Cities and Regions builds a framework for establishing a robust and sustainable concept that can help propel an understanding of how cities and regions around the world can use entrepreneurship and innovation as a catalyst for their future economic, social, and environmental development. The volume highlights the need to account for urban and regional contextual factors when determining the strength or otherwise of entrepreneurial ecosystems, and illustrates that these factors can lead to the development of entrepreneurial activity of quite a different nature across cities and regions.

Delve deep into the heart of entrepreneurial ecosystems in lesser-known regions across the globe, as we unravel the complex tapestry of factors that drive their growth and sustainability. This book offers a rich exploration of diverse ecosystems in Brazil, South Africa, the islands of Madagascar and Reunion, Norway, and countries in Central and Eastern Europe. Through a diverse array of perspectives and real-world experiences, it reveals the drivers and challenges shaping entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems worldwide. Discover the critical role of factors like regional leadership, social entrepreneurs, supportive policies, and cultural dynamics, and see how regions overcome challenges through innovation and resilience. Ideal for policymakers, scholars, and entrepreneurs, this book bridges the gap between theory and practice. Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Drivers, Challenges and Success of Territories is not just a collection of research. It's a roadmap to building vibrant entrepreneurial communities packed with practical guidance and transformative ideas. Whether you are aiming to nurture an entrepreneurial ecosystem or seeking inspiration from global success stories, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone passionate about the future of entrepreneurship and innovation. Join us on this captivating journey and be part of shaping vibrant entrepreneurial regions around the world.

An essential guide to building supportive entrepreneurial communities "Startup communities" are popping up everywhere, from cities like Boulder to Boston and even in countries such as Iceland. These types of entrepreneurial ecosystems are driving innovation and small business energy. Startup Communities documents the buzz, strategy, long-term perspective, and dynamics of building communities of entrepreneurs who can feed off of each other's talent, creativity, and support. Based on more than twenty years of Boulder-based entrepreneur turned-venture capitalist Brad Feld's experience in the field?as well as contributions from other innovative startup communities?this reliable resource skillfully explores what it takes to create an entrepreneurial community in any city, at any time. Along the way, it offers valuable insights into increasing the breadth and depth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem by multiplying connections among entrepreneurs and mentors, improving access to entrepreneurial education, and much more. Details the four critical principles needed to form a sustainable startup community Perfect for entrepreneurs and venture capitalists seeking fresh ideas and new opportunities Written by Brad Feld, a thought-leader in this field who has been an early-stage investor and successful entrepreneur for more than twenty years Engaging and informative, this practical guide not only shows you how startup communities work, but it also shows you how to make them work anywhere in the world.