Configuration of factors influencing the formation of rural entrepreneurship ecosystems in Iran

Purpose The formation of rural entrepreneurship ecosystems is influenced by a complex interplay of various factors, including actor and non-actor components, access to resources, and spatial configurations. This study aims to identify, categorize, and configure the influential factors in creating and developing social entrepreneurship ecosystems in rural society.Methodology/Approach The research consists of two qualitative components aimed at identifying and classifying the influential factors shaping the ecosystem and one quantitative component designed to measure interactions among these factors. The sampling method employed is the snowball method. In the qualitative section, influential factors in ecosystem formation were identified using grounded theory, while in the quantitative part, five experts were interviewed with the help of a localized questionnaire. Structural-interpretive modeling (ISM) was utilized for qualitative analysis of factor levels and ISM-DEMATEL for quantitative analysis involving 15 experts. Ultimately, the impact of factors was calculated using the DEMATEL model.Findings The research results highlight 24 significant and influential factors shaping social entrepreneurship ecosystems in rural Iranian society. These factors were categorized into five policy domains: policy-making, socio-cultural, educational, infrastructural, human resources, economic, and market.Practical Implications These findings show the complexity of decision-making and implementing entrepreneurship initiatives at rural levels.Theoretical implications The results can act as a guide to prevent oversimplification and the absence of thorough attention to the comprehensive development of rural entrepreneurship.Originality/Value Value of this study lies in its comprehensive examination of the unique components and dynamics that shape rural entrepreneurial ecosystems. This research integrates various perspectives, emphasizing the interplay between different factors that contribute to the success of rural entrepreneurship extension.