Social Embeddedness and the Emergence of Academic Intrapreneurship in Resource-Constrained Universities
Social Embeddedness and the Emergence of Academic Intrapreneurship in Resource-Constrained Universities

Author(s): Evelina Van Mensel, Nikolay Dentchev
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Economy, Education, Business Economy / Management, Higher Education , Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Education
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: academic entrepreneurship; intrapreneurship; social network theory; embeddedness
Summary/Abstract: This study examines how the social network embeddedness of academics fosters or inhibits the emergence of diverse, often non‑commercial, forms of academic entrepreneurship in resource‑constrained universities. Based on 38 semi‑structured interviews and six focus groups across four heterogeneous universities, we find that relational structures—especially the multiplexity (multiple relationship types) and multilevel reach (ties across individual, organizational, and community levels) of academic networks—critically shape intrapreneurial behaviour. Robust external networks enable access to resources, legitimacy, and opportunity recognition; network closure and fragmentation inhibit action, even where formal policies appear supportive. We extend classic academic entrepreneurship typologies by identifying socially oriented, network‑driven forms beyond commercialization. We also show how individual academics mobilise micro‑ecosystems around themselves to drive societal impact. The study responds to calls for nuanced theorisation of intrapreneurial processes within universities and offers implications for strengthening the internal and external relational ecosystems that underpin academic entrepreneurship.

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