Barriers and Enablers of Community Entrepreneurship Ventures: A Mixed Method Approach

Abstract

The exploration of community entrepreneurship (CE) has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the context of academic institutions and driving local economic development. Understanding the barriers and enablers that influence the success of academic institution-based CE ventures (CEV) is of paramount importance. This article investigates the barriers and enablers of academic institution-based CEV using a mixed-methods approach. Drawing on resource dependence theory, sociotechnical systems theory, resource-based view, and social capital theory, the study explores the complex interactions between academic institutions and their surrounding communities, focusing on the establishment and success of CEV. The study employs fuzzy “analytic hierarchy process” and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory methodologies to prioritize and identify the interrelationships among the identified barriers and enablers. The findings reveal that among the main categories of collaboration, infrastructure, and networking barriers (causal barriers), and among the subcategories of barriers, insufficient networking opportunities (causal barriers) are the top barriers. To mitigate these barriers, technology-based enablers (causal enablers) are the top enablers. Policymakers and educational institutions can use the findings to design and implement effective support systems that foster an entrepreneurial culture that promotes sustainable community development and economic growth.