Title: The perfect match! Open innovation platforms - assets for collaborative start-ups

Authors: Izabella Bereczki; Johann Füller; Oana Stănculescu

Addresses: University of Innsbruck, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria ' Department of Strategic Management, Marketing and Tourism, University of Innsbruck, Austria ' Transylvanian Furniture Cluster, Piața 1 Mai, 4-5, Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Abstract: In today's hyper-connected world, open innovation can be a way for start-ups to grow more quickly and more effectively. However, finding suitable innovation partners might be a challenge. Therefore, certain innomediaries offer digital platforms that connect start-ups with corporations. However, little is known about the partner-searching methods of start-ups. Moreover, there is a knowledge gap with respect to start-ups needs regarding these platforms. The aim of this study was to investigate the partner-searching methods of start-ups, furthermore, to determine their opinions about existing platforms and their needs for such innomediaries. We used two different research methods: a survey and interviews. Our findings revealed the potential advantages and disadvantages of traditional partner-searching methods. Additionally, we explored the requirements of start-ups for digital platforms that connect innovation partners. The entrepreneurs expected to find specific information about their potential partners, and they wanted to connect with corporations, SMEs and other start-ups.

Keywords: open innovation; online platforms; innomediaries; partner search; start-up; small and medium enterprise; SME; collaboration.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2022.124857

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2022 Vol.26 No.3/4, pp.133 - 160

Received: 30 Sep 2020
Accepted: 08 Dec 2021
Published online: 11 Aug 2022 *

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