Social capital and entrepreneurship

: a qualitative assessment of the decay of social capital value

Abstract

This thesis considers previous and present research on the interface of social capital and entrepreneurship in order to advance theoretical understandings of the field. It aims to develop a better understanding of the progress of the interlinked theoretical streams and the potential that lies within a co-related and combined perspective of both. In particular, considerations of the temporal context are analyzed in order to study the value of social capital development in new venture creation as well as (re)investment requirements in social capital over time. Qualitative case studies from two recently founded European online grocery bag delivery services are used to develop theoretical but also practical implications in a fast changing market environment. Findings indicate that the value of initial social capital reduces relatively over time due to a changing safety-flexibility balance, an alternation in resource requirements, a changing role of the entrepreneur(s), and geographical growth. Investment requirements are determined by resource gaps, structural holes, resource accessibility, resource control, and learning effects. Based on these findings, further research opportunities are highlighted.

Date of Award	26 Oct 2015
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Debbie Harrison (Supervisor)