The Role of Large Corporations in Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: A case study of Munich

Citation

Herzog S, Mason C & Hruskova M (2024) The Role of Large Corporations in Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: A case study of Munich. European Planning Studies. https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2023.2301295

Abstract
A critical omission in research on entrepreneurial ecosystems is the role of large firms. It is claimed that they are critical actors. However, the current consensus – which suggests that their effects are entirely beneficial – is superficial. We present evidence from a case study of Munich, a city that combines an emerging ecosystem with a strong corporate sector, which indicates that the reality is much more nuanced. We confirm the resource-enriching effects of corporations. However, we also identify adverse impacts on the entrepreneurial culture that arise from their conservative and risk-avoiding mindset.

Keywords
Entrepreneurial ecosystems; context; start-up communities; regional policy; corporate-start-up collaboration; corporate organisations

Journal
European Planning Studies

People

Dr Michaela Hruskova

Lecturer in Entrepreneurship, Management, Work and Organisation