Startups incubadas, graduadas e não incubadas: a percepção de empreendedores acerca da influência do capital estrutural recebido em parques tecnológicos

Abstract

This study aimed to discuss, from the perspective of entrepreneurs, the role of structural capital for incubated and graduated startups, as well as for those that did not undergo an incubation process, in order to identify its influence on startup performance. It is an exploratory research with a qualitative approach, conducted with entrepreneurs and managers of startups, including five incubated, seven non-incubated, and two graduated startups. The study revealed significant insights into the importance of structural capital for startup performance. Regarding the data collection method, the research was carried out through semi-structured interviews. Based on the content analysis technique, seven analytical categories emerged from the data. The results indicated that incubated startups tend to benefit more from a structured environment, with access to adequate facilities and technical support, which fosters a more accelerated and effective development of their business models. The interviewees confirmed that incubators provide consulting and management support, which are perceived as decisive for the validation of ideas and the continuous improvement of internal processes. On the other hand, reports from entrepreneurs of non-incubated startups revealed significant challenges related to the lack of structural support. Although they may have promising innovations, the absence of a support network and consulting services tends to hinder the implementation of efficient processes and the execution of research and development initiatives. Graduated startups showed a combination of the benefits of structural capital acquired during incubation and the autonomy gained after leaving the incubator. These ventures managed to maintain relationships and partnerships that foster innovation and constant market adaptation. It was found that structural capital is a determining factor in the performance of startups, directly impacting their capacity for innovation, product development, and market strategies. Incubated startups demonstrated superior performance due to the strategic and structural support they received, highlighting the relevance of incubators as a catalyst for their growth and success, according to the perceptions gathered in this research.