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How the Metaverse reshapes new venture emergence

Author

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  • Sajadi, Sima
  • Niamie, Yabo Octave
  • Armellini, Fabiano

Abstract

The Metaverse, an emerging virtual universe powered by advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and blockchain technologies, presents new avenues for reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape. This study explores the Metaverse's multifaceted roles as an enabler, a market offering (output), and a contextual environment, emphasizing its influence across the prospecting, development, and exploitation stages of new venture emergence. Utilizing a Theory Synthesis approach grounded in a systematic search and critical review (SSCR), the research integrates fragmented insights from entrepreneurial process theory and digital technology frameworks to develop a conceptual understanding of the Metaverse's transformative impact.

Suggested Citation

  • Sajadi, Sima & Niamie, Yabo Octave & Armellini, Fabiano, 2025. "How the Metaverse reshapes new venture emergence," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 221(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:221:y:2025:i:c:s0040162525003956
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2025.124364
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