Investigating the influence of digital innovation hubs on the entrepreneurial activity of start-ups

The dataset comprises raw transcripts from interviews conducted with both Digital Innovation Hub (DIH) managers who design DIH programmes and entrepreneurs/start-up founders who are the beneficiaries of such programmes. The participants are from DIH based in Africa. These interviews aim to explore the impact of digital innovation hubs on entrepreneurial activity, focusing on four main functions: testing before investing, skills and training, funding support, and ecosystem and networking creation.

Key insights from the dataset include:

1. Impact on Startups:
2. • Digital innovation hubs play a crucial role in setting the foundation for startups to launch and scale. They provide essential resources such as office space, internet access, and basic infrastructure, which are vital for the early stages of a startup.
   • Hubs offer invaluable intangible assets, including networking opportunities with industry leaders, potential partners, clients, and investors. This networking helps startups gain technical know-how and business skills necessary for commercialization.
3. Provision of Resources:
4. • Hubs often provide advanced equipment like 3D printers and CNC machines through maker spaces, enabling startups to develop prototypes.
   • Some hubs offer financial resources, such as grants and revolving funds, to support startups' operational costs and early-stage development.
5. Ecosystem and Networking:
6. • The involvement of various stakeholders, including corporates, government agencies, universities, and development partners, is essential. These stakeholders provide not only funding but also valuable connections and policy support.
   • The importance of regional and international collaboration among hubs is emphasized to foster cross-border innovation and market expansion.
7. Funding Challenges and Solutions:
8. • Early-stage startups often struggle with funding due to high risks and the lack of financial backing. Hubs can play a role in mobilizing angel investors and creating customized funding approaches that consider the unique needs of startups.
   • The importance of grants and stipends in supporting the daily operational needs of young entrepreneurs is highlighted, as these financial aids help them sustain their ventures while developing their products.
9. Skills and Training:
10. • Hubs should provide a combination of technical and business skills to startups. While many founders have technical expertise, they often lack the business acumen needed to commercialize their innovations.
    • Training in areas like market access, product development, and investment readiness is crucial for the success of startups.
11. Measurement of Success:
12. • Success metrics for startups include the number of customers, revenue growth, and the amount of capital raised. These indicators help assess the progress and potential of startups within the ecosystem.
13. Strategic Focus Areas:
14. • Skills and training, access to funding, and ecosystem networking are identified as the most critical functions that need to be prioritized by digital innovation hubs to maximize entrepreneurial activity.