Entrepreneurial Accelerator Programmes - Critical Success Factors
Master's Thesis · ~112 pages · English
Abstract
This thesis examines how higher education institutions are adopting startup accelerators as part of their "third mission" of regional economic development. It critiques the uncritical adoption of Silicon Valley models in Europe and investigates critical success factors including mentorship structures, cohort dynamics, and selection criteria affecting startup outcomes.
1. Introduction
Universities increasingly embrace entrepreneurial missions beyond traditional teaching and research functions. The proliferation of university-based accelerator programmes reflects this "third mission" orientation, yet implementation often proceeds without rigorous evaluation of design choices.
This research examines how programme design characteristics shape outcomes for early-stage student ventures within European entrepreneurial ecosystems.
2. Research Question
To what extent do design characteristics of university-based accelerator programmes shape the development and growth of early-stage student start-ups within European entrepreneurial ecosystems?
Sub-questions examine critical success factors identified in literature, the impact of design choices on human and social capital development, regional ecosystem moderating factors, and best-practice recommendations for European universities.
3. Key Contributions
The thesis provides three primary contributions:
1. Clear differentiation between traditional incubator models and accelerator capabilities, establishing taxonomic precision for future research
2. Analysis of student entrepreneur developmental needs distinct from experienced founders
3. Contextualized critique of Anglo-American acceleration models, identifying necessary adaptations for European institutional contexts
References
- [1]Pauwels, C., et al. (2016). Understanding a new generation incubation model: The accelerator. Technovation, 50-51, 13-24.
- [2]Wright, M., et al. (2017). Student spin-offs from universities: Towards a taxonomy. Journal of Technology Transfer, 42(1), 67-89.
- [3]Etzkowitz, H., & Leydesdorff, L. (2000). The dynamics of innovation: from National Systems and Mode 2 to a Triple Helix of university–industry–government relations. Research Policy, 29(2), 109-123.
- [4]Cohen, S. (2013). What Do Accelerators Do? Insights from Incubators and Angels. Innovations, 8(3-4), 19-25.
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