Abstract

This study investigated the role of innovation hubs in driving innovation and entrepreneurial behavior among local communities, ultimately contributing to the development of better national entrepreneurship ecosystems. The researcher employed a qualitative methodology using a case study approach to conduct an empirical investigation to obtain deeper insights into the innovation hubs phenomenon using the Creativa Innovation Hubs initiative in two governorates in Upper Egypt, Qena and Aswan. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with twenty individuals between beneficiaries and managers of Creativa innovation hubs. The study demonstrated that government efforts to promote entrepreneurship through the Creativa Innovation Hubs Initiative significantly influence youth entrepreneurial skills and access to opportunities, particularly in communities facing geographic development gaps. More planned efforts from other entrepreneurship support organizations need to be directed to these communities to leverage the potential of such initiatives. Furthermore, the hybrid operating model of the innovation hubs has proven highly successful, as it leverages the agility and resourcefulness of private sector companies while capitalizing on the government support dedicated to these hubs. This model was found most beneficial when it uses local operators, especially in marginalized communities, in contrast to well-established national operators, as local ones facilitated localized services tailored for communities with geographic disparities, thereby improving access to opportunities in entrepreneurship, freelancing, or regular employment.

School

School of Global Affairs and Public Policy

Department

Public Policy & Administration Department

Degree Name

MA in Public Administration

Graduation Date

Fall 12-20-2024

Submission Date

10-7-2024

First Advisor

Ghada Barsoum

Committee Member 1

Laila El Baradei

Committee Member 2

Mohamed ElKaramany

Extent

116 p.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Approval has been obtained for this item

Download

Share

COinS