Innovation laboratories and barriers to intrapreneurship in governments

This article analyzes the potential of innovation labs to minimize the barriers to intrapreneurial behavior within the public sector. Employing a qualitative approach, the study uses bibliographical sources, documental research, and structured questionnaires applied to a sample of 22 civil servants working in 18 innovation laboratories identified in South America. The results reveal that innovation labs contribute to minimizing the barriers to entrepreneurial behavior, especially those related to the bureaucratization of processes, low flexibility, resistance to change, and arrogance. These spaces achieve this by simplifying processes, using methodologies and training courses to stimulate creativity and innovation, and fostering a closer alignment between public servants and citizen demand. This research contributes valuable insights into how innovation labs can create a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in the public sector, given the dynamic characteristics of these spaces and the use of agile methodologies, transforming the mentality of public servants.