Serial entrepreneur and entrepreneurial learning – a case study from Finland

Abstract

This study provides insights into the characteristics and behaviour of serial entrepreneurs. The study emphasises the role of experience in serial entrepreneurship. The main focus is to illustrate how serial entrepreneurs can use their previous entrepreneurial experiences in their entrepreneurial career. The case introduced in this paper is that of a young Finnish serial entrepreneur. His story fits to some of the earlier findings in the field, but it also offer new insights into earlier results. Results show that the serial entrepreneur in question firmly and continuously exploited entrepreneurial learning and experiences in his entrepreneurial career. When moving to new business in a new industry, the serial entrepreneur may be capable of thinking 'outside the box', and hence to innovate. Findings also suggest that a new generation of entrepreneurs, with less risk-averse approaches to entrepreneurship, may enhance more positive attitudes about entrepreneurship in general.

Serial entrepreneurs: A review of literature and guidance for future research

“…For example, Engel et al (2020), using the think-aloud verbal protocol and semi-structured interviews, uncovered the differences in naming ventures between novice and experienced entrepreneurs. Kuuluvainen (2010), based on the case of a young Finish serial entrepreneur, revealed the impact of thinking outside of the box on entrepreneurial experience.…”

“…Most of the research on serial entrepreneurship has been conducted within Europe, Asia, and North America; however, some research articles explore serial entrepreneurship in other geographical settings. Supporting Eggers and Song (2015), research in Finland suggests that serial entrepreneurs utilize their past knowledge when starting a new business in a different industry (Kuuluvainen, 2010). As these serial entrepreneurs are not ingrained in their new industry, they are able to think outside of the box and develop innovative practices.…”

Brazilian microfranchising chains: entrepreneurs' backgrounds and perceptions of brands and support

“…Previous experiences in other businesses also influence entrepreneurs to open up new businesses. These experiences with other businesses serve as a background for a new initiative even if it is in another sector (Kuuluvainen, 2010) and provide the entrepreneur with experiential learning opportunities (Politis, 2005), thus, generating domain-relevant management skills (Chawla et al, 1997). However, concerning people with previous professional experience, it is questionable how much of this background is associated with leadership posts.…”