Creative entrepreneurs and embeddedness in non-urban places: a resource exchange and network embeddedness logic

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing from resource-based theorising, the concept of network embeddedness and a process perspective on entrepreneurship, this paper establishes a conceptual framework to explain a multi-level and multi-locational network embeddedness of creative entrepreneurs in non-urban places. It challenges stylised facts about creative entrepreneurship as a predominantly urban phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon the conceptual framework for creative entrepreneurship in a non-urban place, an illustrative case study of small-scale creative-design entrepreneurs on the Lofoten Islands in Norway (2019) is utilised to discuss the framework.

Findings

The conceptual paper derives a fine-grained understanding about how creative entrepreneurship emerges and develops in non-urban places and contributes to a better understanding of how such places can nurture such entrepreneurship through multiple network embeddedness and resource-exchange configurations.

Research limitations/implications

The article will enable further empirical research that tests, validates and, if necessary, refines the framework established.

Practical implications

Creative entrepreneurs should use various resource-exchange combinations with diverse networks to become locally embedded in non-urban places. Public-policy managers need to be aware of this variety that may exist with the network embeddedness of such entrepreneurs to support them and develop the location through resource provisions.

Originality/value

The paper uses an original conceptual framework.

Citation

Leick, B., Gretzinger, S. and Roddvik, I.N. (2023), "Creative entrepreneurs and embeddedness in non-urban places: a resource exchange and network embeddedness logic", International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, Vol. 29 No. 5, pp. 1133-1157. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-07-2022-0606