Connecting content and structure: A review of mechanisms in entrepreneurs’ social networks

Abstract

Network studies in the entrepreneurship domain suffer from an incomplete theorization of how the content of social capital relates to network relationships and structures in which entrepreneurs are embedded or embed themselves. This study presents a systematic review of the various ways in which the interaction between content (e.g. cognition and resources) and social structure has been studied within entrepreneurship. Based on this review, we develop a more integrative account of the underlying action mechanisms that link the content and structure of social capital. These mechanisms cut across different research traditions and align areas of entrepreneurship research. In this way, we contribute an integrative review of prior work and a formative set of directions for further theorizing and research on social capital, networks and entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurial networks, effectuation and business model innovation of startups: The moderating role of environmental dynamism

“…In addition, this research distinguishes the effects of network size and strength on BMI, which is rare and called for research (Partanen et al, 2020). Prior research presents inconsistent findings on the specific network dimensions that influence innovation (Burg et al, 2021; Partanen et al, 2020). For example, some studies determined that network size positively impacted innovation (Hansen et al, 2005; Raz & Gloor, 2007), whereas other studies showed no consistent results (Lechner et al, 2006).…”

“…A general view is that firm positioning with network structures has a significant effect on resource flows and, thus, on entrepreneurial outcomes (Hoang & Yi, 2015). It is proposed that two network structure characteristics, network size and network strength, are particularly important for determining BMI (Burg et al, 2021;Hoang & Yi, 2015;Hoanga & Antoncich, 2003;Sullivan & Ford, 2014).…”

“…Supported specific network dimensions that influence innovation (Burg et al, 2021;Partanen et al, 2020). For example, some studies determined that network size positively impacted innovation (Hansen et al, 2005;Raz & Gloor, 2007), whereas other studies showed no consistent results (Lechner et al, 2006).…”

“…A defining characteristic of entrepreneurial networks is the focus on the network structures and impacts on outcomes. Network structure characteristics including network size and network strength are particularly important to BMI (Burg et al, 2021;Hoang & Yi, 2015;Hoanga & Antoncich, 2003;Sullivan & Ford, 2014). Therefore, the effects of network size and network strength were highlighted.…”

“…Critical structural characteristics of entrepreneurial networks include network size and strength (Anderson, 2008; Fernández‐Pérez et al, 2016; Hoang & Yi, 2015). However, the research has produced inconsistent findings on the network structures that influence innovation (Burg et al, 2021; Partanen et al, 2020). Therefore, it is now necessary to investigate the influence of entrepreneurial networks on BMI through quantitative empirical research.…”