Unveiling the role of identity-based and calculative networks to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem in an emerging economy

The Entrepreneurial Ecosystem [EE] approach has become a trend among practitioners and policymakers but without the necessary theoretical depth. In contrast, the relational approach to EEs is a way of understanding EEs through their network of relationships. This study analyzes how entrepreneurs employ networks to develop their businesses and their role in forming and consolidating local EEs. This qualitative research employed a comparative case study of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship support programs. The research methods included content analysis and exploratory social network analysis. The study revealed that identity-based networks and calculative networks, which are formed after interacting with relevant EE actors, play a crucial role in the development of companies and the ecosystem. Two contributions are highlighted: (i) the demonstration of how brokers may not be effectively brokering, as in the access to investments by the companies studied, and (ii) the presence of particular actors from identity networks when developing calculative networks, such as family and friends, which may affect the full development of companies and can be characterized as a specific aspect of EE in emerging economies. Practical contributions to public policymakers are also discussed.