A model with policy network approach for entrepreneurship policy making

Abstract

One policy making issue that needs to be addressed more effectively through an intergovernmental and participatory approach is entrepreneurship policy. Entrepreneurship is an area where interdependencies are very high, and the establishment of collaborative relationships such as networks is vital. Therefore, a network approach in the entrepreneurial policy-making process, which leads to the involvement of key stakeholders and entrepreneurs, will lead to higher legitimacy and effectiveness of policies. The purpose of the research is to validate and design a suitable model for policy networks in the field of entrepreneurship. Qualitative data analysis was conducted through theme analysis; and the quantitative data through the structural equations. After designing the conceptual model, the research questionnaire with dimensions was distributed among 240 experts and managers of the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare. Reliability of the questionnaire was verified using Cronbach's alpha and composite Reliability Coefficient (CR), and its validity was confirmed by Convergent Validity and Convergent Validity (AVE) methods. Finally, 24 components were identified in four branches of necessity, structural, behavioral and background. The findings show that, it is essential for the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare to focus on the role and importance of these entrepreneurs in order to develop the field of entrepreneurship, and to consider the network thinking in policy making as a substitute for hierarchical thinking.