Clusters and Entrepreneurial Intnesity: The Influence of Economic Clusters on Entrepreneurial Activity

Abstract

As interest in clusters has increased in recent decades, so has related research. To date, studies have explored the advantages of location within a cluster from an economic perspective, and much print has been devoted to describing clusters. Still to be addressed, however, is the question of whether economic advantage varies by cluster type and whether the competitive advantages that accrue to cluster firms vary according to both the location of the clusters and their concentration. Similarly, no empirical research has yet been carried out that specifically addresses the impact of clusters on entrepreneurial activity, in an effort to determine whether they enhance such activity. This paper begins by reviewing they key literature concerning cluster development and entrepreneurship. Hypotheses regarding the intensity of entrepreneurial activity in relation to cluster location and concentration are then presented and evaluated. The findings suggest that concentrations of multiple clusters do serve to enhance entrepreneurial activity and that, consequently, certain regions are naturally advantaged by the presence of these concentrations. A discussion follows, in which the implications of these findings for entrepreneurship and for regional policymakers are considered. Finally, directions for future research are proposed.

Citation

Pascal, V.J. (2005), "Clusters and Entrepreneurial Intnesity: The Influence of Economic Clusters on Entrepreneurial Activity", Journal of Research in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Vol. 7 No. 1, pp. 5-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/14715200580001348