Whether we realize it or not, our communities have an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether it’s a networking event at a local chamber of commerce or a venture capital firm investing in a startup company, each activity that facilitates entrepreneurial growth is a component of this ecosystem. Some indicators of the entrepreneurial ecosystem have direct ties to startup growth (e.g. venture capital investment), while others are indicators necessary to build-out capacity (e.g. talent attraction and education).
Examining entrepreneurial ecosystem measurement is an interesting and important research activity for several reasons. First, there is a significant amount of taxpayer investment in play through public financing of small businesses and early stage companies. Second, practitioners and funders are currently seeking ways to expand entrepreneurial activity in order to increase regional prosperity.
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