Networks and corporate entrepreneurship: A comparative case study on family business in Catalonia

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to analyse in-depth collaboration as a process that emergesrnfrom interactions among individuals in order to develop entrepreneurial actions within establishedrnfamily firms. The research is contextualized in the metal sector in Catalonia (Spain), using institutionalrneconomics as a theoretical framework of reference.rnDesign/methodology/approach - Methodologically, the paper adopt an exploratory perspectivernand employs a qualitative approach. In particular, a multiple case-study is used to gain deep insightsrninto a contemporary and complex issue within its real-life context, and two case studies arernpurposefully selected in order to be able to conduct cross-case comparisons.rnFindings - In the early formation phase of collective entrepreneurship, there are similaritiesrnreflecting the networks status of both cases. In contrast, there are some variations concerning therndevelopment of collective entrepreneurship within the businesses which affect the type of corporaternentrepreneurship (CE) activities developed by the firms.rnResearch limitations/implications - By using a case study approach, it is hard to validate therntheories for any more general applicability.rnPractical implications - Promoting trust in the organizational context, owner-managers mayrnassume the role of intrapreneurs as network or human interaction builders within businesses, in orderrnto promote CE through collective activities.rnOriginality/value - The paper shows that CE activities may be understood from a collective actionrnamong employees and owner-managers. The paper also demonstrates that the phenomenon can bernplace into a broader theoretical context, taking into account the considerations included in institutionalrneconomics.