Entrepreneurial Dynamics: An Empirical Study of Entrepreneur Profiles, Innovation Ecosystems, and R&D Intensity
Purpose: This study examines the determinants of entrepreneurial dynamics by integrating entrepreneur-level assets (knowledge, skills, personality), the innovation ecosystem, and firm-level R&D intensity into a unified empirical model. Design/Methodology/Approach: Drawing on a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, qualitative interviews informed measurement development and contextual interpretation, while a quantitative survey (n = 84) was analyzed with PLS-SEM to test hypothesized relationships. The structural model explains a substantial portion of variance in entrepreneurial dynamics and shows good fit. Findings: Results indicate that entrepreneurial knowledge, the quality of the innovation ecosystem, and R&D engagement are the strongest and most consistent predictors of dynamic firm behaviour (adaptation, process renewal, opportunity seeking, and business-model evolution). Entrepreneurial skills exert a positive but more modest effect, whereas personality traits do not have a significant direct impact, suggesting their influence may operate indirectly through knowledge, skills, or network channels. Practical Implications: These findings corroborate and extend recent work emphasizing knowledge-based resources and ecosystem support in emerging economies, and they highlight the centrality of human capital and R&D investments for firm adaptability and growth. Originality/Value: For policy and practice, the evidence recommends prioritizing knowledge development, strengthening ecosystem infrastructures (incubators, research partnerships, finance access), and incentivizing R&D to foster resilient, innovation-driven SMEs.