An Article by a MAI Researcher Among the Most Cited in the Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal

The article, titled "From tensions to synergy: Causation and effectuation in the process of venture creation," delves into the intricate process of venture creation, highlighting the significance of blending different decision-making logics. Specifically, it explores the integration of causation, a goal-driven logic, and effectuation, a non-goal-driven logic, which is crucial for start-up success. However, the journey to achieving this synergy is often fraught with tensions.

Dr. Atkova and her colleagues studied 41 episodes of new venture creation by entrepreneurs in Finland and Denmark, identifying that these tensions can arise at the individual, organizational, and inter-organizational levels. Their research goes further to uncover four distinct mechanisms through which entrepreneurs can navigate and resolve these tensions, both within their ventures and in their interactions with other stakeholders.

This insightful study provides valuable guidance for entrepreneurs and stakeholders in the start-up ecosystem, offering practical strategies to harmonize different approaches and enhance venture success. The recognition of this research as a highly cited work underscores its impact and relevance in the field of entrepreneurship.

The article is available for reading here.