Towards the entrepreneurial city : the case of Malmö’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Abstract: This study explores the topic of the choice of location of entrepreneurs and the extent of the role of spatial context in entrepreneurship at the city level.In other words, by analysing the interactions between entrepreneurs and their spatial context on an urban microscale, we pursue to understand how a city can become more entrepreneurial. We do this by conceptualising entrepreneurship in the urban context as a spatial and multifaceted phenomenon and exploring how entrepreneurs, based on their experience, are enabled by their spatial context to choose a place from where to operate their business, regardless of their proximity independence from specific resources or markets. This thesis focuses on data provided by eleven entrepreneurs working in Malmö. Given the lack of theorisation in the area, the study explores an inductive approach using semi-structured interviews supported by the usage of maps. Furthermore, we define a broader understanding of the city's spatial context concerning entrepreneurship through four aggregated dimensions: (1) city’s physical dimension, (2) city connectivity, (3) city entrepreneurial culture, and (4) city, people. Finally, as not every firm relate in the same manner with its spatial surroundings, six different typologies of entrepreneurs are conceptualised, combining the concepts of spatial embeddedness and prior entrepreneurial experience. Thus, providing a thorough understanding of the choice of location of entrepreneurs, helping policymakers, scholars, and entrepreneurs work jointly towards a more entrepreneurial city.