Studies on entrepreneurship are usually fragmented, with several focuses of analysis and different epistemological and ontological foundations. However, efforts already exist on the part of some authors in analyzing such phenomenon through a more integrated perspective. The objective of the present study is to analyze how the founders of Aliança Empreendedora (a non-governmental organization) used their relationship network to get resources and legitimacy for the creation of the referred organization. Three theoretical approaches were adopted: relationship networks, vision based on resources and legitimacy. The strategy of case study was adopted and a triangulation of several sources of evidences was made in order to understand the interaction between the relationship networks and the resources, as well as the legitimacy in the process of creation of this social organization. Consistency between the theoretical approaches adopted in the study was reached, which has led to the reflection about the necessity of focusing not only the entrepreneur in order to comprehend the creation of new business, but also the context.
entrepreneurship; case study research; legitimacy; resources; relationship networks
