Expanding the Comprehension of Governance in Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Using Institutional Grammar

Event Series:

Institutional Grammar Research Initiative | IGRI Research Seminar Series | September 2025

Presenter:

Carlos Alberto Prieto Valero | European University Viadrina

Abstract:

Institutions shape economic outcomes, a fact recognized by Nobel Price winners Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson, Douglas North, and Oliver Williamson. In entrepreneurial ecosystems, governance structures define interactions among actors, influencing innovation and cooperation. Despite growing research on entrepreneurial ecosystems, governance remains underexplored. This study identifies and analyzes modes of governance in ecosystems using the Institutional Grammar method (2.0), a tool for analyzing institutional design that has become much more important in recent years.

Entrepreneurial ecosystems are dynamic networks of actors, institutions, and resources that foster interaction, serendipity, and innovation. Heilbronn – not very well known internationally – was selected as a case since it now seeks to become Europe´s leading AI Ecosystem, driven by tremendous investments.

Our research question is: What is the governance approach of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Heilbronn, and how should it be developed to enhance productive interactions? Our study identifies and discusses governance patterns in the emerging ecosystem. It contributes to governance theory by offering a better understanding of governance in entrepreneurial ecosystems and provides practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance governance mechanisms.