16401: Scaling Up Accelerator Research

Accelerators have become an essential feature of the global entrepreneurial landscape. Over the past five years, in our PDW, we focused on (1) considering different venture-specific factors that determine the extent to which ventures will benefit from participation in accelerators, (2) re-examining the effects of different mechanisms of accelerators on ventures’ performance, and (3) identifying lessons for generating novel theory by discussing the implications from accelerator research beyond accelerators. The goal is to broaden the research focus beyond traditional accelerators and economic metrics and explore how accelerators contribute to experimentation, knowledge-sharing, identity development, and social impact. First, we will examine accelerators' role in promoting social that help social enterprises expand their reach and operational scale. Accelerators also support entrepreneurs in their experimentation strategies by providing resources, mentoring, and peer networks that shape entrepreneurs' skills, strategies, and self-concept. Second, we will explore entrepreneurial identity development impact and entrepreneurial experimentation through longitudinal qualitative research. Entrepreneurs evolve from initial exposure to the role, imitate idealized models, and eventually refine their identity through realistic experiences. Accelerators play a significant role in the process of experimentation strategies by offering experiential learning opportunities and mentorship. Lastly, we will focus on the role of diversity and cohort-level knowledge exchange in venture success. Studies show peer knowledge exchange within accelerator cohorts, especially among experienced entrepreneurs, significantly boosts venture performance. This PDW aims to continue to create a learning platform for scholars interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship and accelerators.