Start-up information search practice: the case of Turkey

Abstract

Information search process may be especially crucial in an emerging economy context where gaps in knowledge are magnified due to the limited sources in terms of availability, accessibility, and quality. This study observes the role of previous entrepreneurial experience on the information search practice of entrepreneurs during start-up, under the framework of social embeddedness. The impact of this initial information search practice on the future growth of start-ups is also explored. Based on an empirical study of 172 entrepreneurs in Turkey, the results indicate that: (1) first-time entrepreneurs search significantly more intensely; (2) they utilize more of formal resources, and (3) the intensity of the information search practice is positively related with the future growth of a start-up.