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A Framework for Designing Business-Acceleration Programs: A Case Study from Egypt

  • Ayman Ismail EMAIL logo
Published/Copyright: March 3, 2020

Abstract

Business acceleration services are gaining popularity around the world. In this study, we put forward a framework and an iterative process for the design of acceleration programs. Based on literature from around the world and a case study of an acceleration program in Egypt, we develop a model that considers the process for designing, monitoring, and adjusting an acceleration program based on both internal and external considerations. In this study, we find that aspects such as the analysis of the external environment in the surrounding entrepreneurship ecosystem, and of the internal environment in the host institution’s capabilities, resources, and limitations, are important in guiding the design process. We also illustrate a comprehensive set of design parameters to be considered in the development of the acceleration program, including the program’s value proposition, sector focus, duration, service offering, resource intensity, partnerships, as well as the profile of the startups supported. In presenting this model, we aim to fill an important gap in research on how accelerators are designed and offer a framework substantiated by academic review that helps practitioners and policymakers avoid “copying and pasting” acceleration programs without careful attention to the local contexts and needs.

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Published Online: 2020-03-03

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