Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/321252 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Citation: 
[Journal:] Administrative Sciences [ISSN:] 2076-3387 [Volume:] 15 [Issue:] 3 [Article No.:] 108 [Year:] 2025 [Pages:] 1-26
Publisher: 
MDPI, Basel
Abstract: 
Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in driving innovation, productivity, and economic growth, with universities emerging as key actors within entrepreneurial ecosystems. This study seeks to expand the understanding on the role of Latin American universities on entrepreneurial ecosystems by examining the case of alumni from Escuela Politécnica Nacional (EPN). Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research explores individual, organizational, and institutional dynamics within the Ecuadorian entrepreneurial ecosystem. Results indicate that universities like EPN nurture professional and technical capabilities but face institutional obstacles that restrict their capacity to foster knowledge-based, high-growth ventures. This study highlights several institutional-level barriers, including market dominance, limited access to formal financing, corruption, and complex regulations, that limit innovation. Thus, universities in the region play an important role in preparing potential entrepreneurs, yet their impact is ultimately restricted by contextual factors. To overcome these challenges, universities can strengthen their support by integrating entrepreneurship education, networking opportunities, early-stage venture experiences, and exposure to role models or success stories. Particularly in contexts like Ecuador, fostering self-efficacy, resilience, and opportunity recognition can boost entrepreneurial behavior. In addition, enhancing university-industry collaboration, encouraging business transparency, improving funding accessibility, and supporting knowledge-intensive businesses are essential steps to harness the full potential of universities in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Subjects: 
academic entrepreneurship
entrepreneurial ecosystem
Latin America
youth employment
Persistent Identifier of the first edition: 
Creative Commons License: 
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Document Type: 
Article
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