Creative entrepreneurs and embeddedness in non-urban places: a resource exchange and network embeddedness logic

Abstract

Purpose: Drawing from resource-based theorising, the concept of network embeddedness and a process perspective on entrepreneurship, this paper establishes a conceptual framework to explain a multi-level and multi-locational network embeddedness of creative entrepreneurs in non-urban places. It challenges stylised facts about creative entrepreneurship as a predominantly urban phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach: Based upon the conceptual framework for creative entrepreneurship in a non-urban place, an illustrative case study of small-scale creative-design entrepreneurs on the Lofoten Islands in Norway (2019) is utilised to discuss the framework. Findings: The conceptual paper derives a fine-grained understanding about how creative entrepreneurship emerges and develops in non-urban places and contributes to a better understanding of how such places can nurture such entrepreneurship through multiple network embeddedness and resource-exchange configurations. Originality: The paper uses an original conceptual framework. Research limitations/implications: The article will enable further empirical research that tests, validates and, if necessary, refines the framework established. Practical and social implications: Creative entrepreneurs should use various resource-exchange combinations with diverse networks to become locally embedded in non-urban places. Public-policy managers need to be aware of this variety that may exist with the network embeddedness of such entrepreneurs to support them and develop the location through resource provisions. Keywords Creative entrepreneurship, multi-level network embeddedness, multi-locational network embeddedness, resource exchanges, nascent entrepreneurship, incumbent entrepreneurship, non-urban places, illustrative case study. Article classification: Conceptual paper