The role of organizational culture in driving managerial innovation: evidence from Moroccan startups

Ait Oufkir Abdellah (), Aazzab Abdelkarim (), Moubarak El Hijazi () and Lahoussine Elktiri ()
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Ait Oufkir Abdellah: EMAA Business School Agadir
Aazzab Abdelkarim: Ibn Zohr University, ENCG Agadir
Moubarak El Hijazi: Ibn Zohr University, FSJES AIT Melloul
Lahoussine Elktiri: Chouaib Doukkali University, EST Sidi Bennour

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 2025, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-15

Abstract: Abstract This study examines the impact of organizational culture on managerial innovation within Moroccan startups, providing empirical evidence from a diverse sample of firms. By investigating four cultural dimensions adhocracy, clan, hierarchical, and market we demonstrate that organizational culture plays a pivotal role in shaping both disruptive and incremental innovation processes. Our findings highlight that adhocracy culture, characterized by flexibility and risk taking, is a significant driver of disruptive innovation. In contrast, clan and hierarchical cultures are more conducive to incremental improvements through their focus on collaboration and stability. In addition, the study critically explores the challenges of aligning traditional values with modern innovation strategies in an emerging market like Morocco. The results offer valuable insights for startup leaders seeking to strategically cultivate cultures that foster both operational success and long-term innovation in fast-evolving environments, thus enhancing their competitive advantage. These findings contribute to the broader discourse on organizational culture and innovation, particularly within the MENA region and other emerging markets.

Keywords: Innovation management; Organizational culture; Startups; Managerial innovation; Innovation strategy; Cultural impact; Business innovation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1186/s13731-025-00551-3

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