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Knowledge-based regional development by university and regional entrepreneurial ecosystems: Permeability, boundaries and complementarities

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  • Butzin, Anna
  • Flögel, Franz
  • Meyer, Kerstin
  • Rabadjieva, Maria

Abstract

This paper discusses the interplay between university entrepreneurial ecosystems (UEE) and regional entrepreneurial ecosystems (REE) in knowledge-based regional development, focusing on their permeability, boundaries, and complementarities. Using qualitative data from 176 events attended by startups from UEE and REE in the German Ruhr region, the research reveals an asymmetric permeability: UEE startups frequently engage with REE events to access market knowledge and managerial skills, while REE startups rarely participate in UEE activities beyond recruiting graduates. Both ecosystems deliver similar types of entrepreneurial knowledge, such as managerial and funding insights, but differ in their emphasis. UEEs focus more on market insights linked to technology commercialisation, whereas REEs emphasise marketing knowledge reflecting closer market proximity. The findings highlight the REE's nurturing role by providing practical support and market access for the UEE startups. The study suggests fostering greater inclusivity of UEEs to benefit a broader range of founders and recommends hybrid event formats combining UEE and REE resources to enhance regional innovation dynamics.

Suggested Citation

  • Butzin, Anna & Flögel, Franz & Meyer, Kerstin & Rabadjieva, Maria, 2026. "Knowledge-based regional development by university and regional entrepreneurial ecosystems: Permeability, boundaries and complementarities," IAT Discussion Papers 26/01, Institut Arbeit und Technik (IAT), Westfälische Hochschule, University of Applied Sciences.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:iatdps:343531
    DOI: 10.53190/dp/202601
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Colin Mason & Jacqueline Bartlett & Blair Winsor, 2025. "Failure’s virtues: the seeding of an emerging entrepreneurial ecosystem in a peripheral region," Entrepreneurship & Regional Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 37(3-4), pages 375-391, March.
    2. Aki Harima & Jan Harima & Jörg Freiling, 2021. "The injection of resources by transnational entrepreneurs: towards a model of the early evolution of an entrepreneurial ecosystem," Entrepreneurship & Regional Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(1-2), pages 80-107, January.
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