Temporary urban activities as potential business incubators: the role of networks, time and space

ABSTRACT Today, temporary urban activities are conceived as a strategic planning tool for both private investors and urban governments. This study discuss the potential of such urban activities to serve as incubation space for small-scale urban-based entrepreneurship. The analysis indicates that short-term arrangements and low establishment costs appeal to small-scale entrepreneurs who want to try out a business idea without major initial investment risks. Also, the study shows that a focused effort to establish a solid network structure to tap into, as well as informal network relations between the individual entrepreneurs, are prerequisites if temporary urban activities are to facilitate sustainable businesses. Thus, the study finds that temporary urban activities can serve as incubator spaces if the right supporting structures are in place.