Ecosystem-Driven Growth: The Effect of Iterative Strategies and Lean Programs on Startup Performance in Jabodetabek, Indonesia

This research explores the influence of the startup ecosystem on the performance of startups in the Jabodetabek area, focusing on iterative incremental strategies and lean startup programs as mediators. Adopting a quantitative approach, the study employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze data from startups with 1-10 years of operation. The findings reveal that both iterative incremental strategies and lean startup programs significantly mediate the relationship between the startup ecosystem and startup performance, leading to improvements in market optimization, innovation, and sustainability. The study concludes that the supportive structures of the startup ecosystem, when effectively leveraged through iterative and lean methodologies, enhance startup performance across financial and non-financial metrics. This research underscores the critical role of agile and responsive strategies in navigating the complexities of the dynamic startup landscape, providing actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to foster a more vibrant and sustainable startup ecosystem. The implications of this study extend beyond the local context, offering a model for enhancing startup performance through ecosystem support and strategic agility, potentially informing policy and program development in other regions