Effective policy mixes in entrepreneurial ecosystems: a configurational analysis in China

Hongqi Wang, Tianyi Zhao, Sarah Y. Cooper (), Shanshan Wang, Richard T. Harrison and Zhongji Yang
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Hongqi Wang: Harbin University of Science and Technology
Tianyi Zhao: Harbin University of Science and Technology
Sarah Y. Cooper: University of Edinburgh Business School, The University of Edinburgh
Shanshan Wang: Zhejiang University of Finance & Economics
Richard T. Harrison: University of Edinburgh Business School, The University of Edinburgh
Zhongji Yang: Harbin University of Science and Technology

Small Business Economics, 2023, vol. 60, issue 4, No 10, 1509-1542

Abstract: Abstract Policy-makers are seeking to build vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) to promote innovative entrepreneurship. However, the role of government policy in EEs, especially in the emerging economy context, is poorly understood, lacking a systematic concept of policy and theoretical framework, clear policy classification, and empirical research considering distinctive characteristics of policy mixes in EEs. This paper introduces the concept of EE policy mixes and classifies them into seven policy instruments. Using data from 21 national high-tech zones (NHZs) in China, fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is applied to identify effective configurations of EE policy mixes that support early-stage and late-stage technology start-ups to produce high entrepreneurial performance. The configurational analysis shows that EE policy mixes present causal complexity and stage differences. Based on interpreting multiple policy interactions, we reveal the differentiated support mechanisms of EE policy mixes in NHZs and draw out their implications for research, policy, and practice. This study contributes to the EE literature by adopting a policy-mix perspective to examine the role of policy, exploring the specific emerging economy context of China, suggesting further extensions of the research to other contexts, and applying a methodology that reveals causal mechanisms. It also supports better-informed EE policy and governance.

Keywords: Entrepreneurial ecosystem; Government policy; Policy mixes; Emerging economies; China; Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L26 M13 R11 R58 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11187-022-00658-x

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