Political drivers of entrepreneurial growth: A case study of Romania’s North-East region

This study adopts a political-environmental perspective on the entrepreneurial ecosystem, focusing on the interactions between the Romanian state, local authorities, and entrepreneurs seeking preferential access to resources. The objective is to identify the key challenges entrepreneurs face in their business activities. It further examines the intricate relationship between innovation, entrepreneurship education, and entrepreneurial activity, with a strong focus on the diverse economic effects of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship environments, recognized as instruments for economic advancement, are scrutinized to highlight the need for a systematic approach in both their construction and the identification of potential inefficiencies. The research urges policymakers to prioritize regional and urban areas in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems, with a specific emphasis on the Romania North-East region. The findings underscore the critical influence of the policy environment on entrepreneurship, providing meaningful perspectives for policymakers and researchers involved in the development of entrepreneurial ecosystems. In addressing the complexities and rapid technological changes associated with Industry 4.0, this research applies a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. The study explores how various policy factors drive entrepreneurial initiatives and seeks to determine the most effective ways to tap into emerging opportunities. Utilizing a policy-oriented questionnaire, this research presents an in-depth overview and validated analysis of the entrepreneurial landscape in Romania, contributing to innovative strategies for economic growth and sustainable development. To thoroughly investigate the entrepreneurial landscape in Romania, particularly its interaction with the political environment, the study adopts a triangulated methodology that combines descriptive, explanatory and applied research methods. Triangulation ensures the consistency and validation of data, while the questionnaire gathers primary data on stakeholder perceptions of the entrepreneurial environment. This methodological integration enables the research to merge theoretical insights with empirical evidence, offering a balanced and robust analysis of Romania’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.