One of the strands in current literature on entrepreneurship perceives the entrepreneur as a creator of networks. In contrast to the dominant concept of the entrepreneur as a self-sufficient and individualistic player, this literature introduces some interesting developments, both at the theoretical level as well as in terms of empirical observation. It does, however, have its limitations, particularly in its treatment of the topic in a world that is characterized by a breathtakingly fast transformation process, where innovation is the driving force. This paper takes a look at this problem and shows how it is possible to overcome theoretical limitations by associating them with the most recent innovation-centered neo-Schumpeterian literature. It shows that the union between these two approaches can make a relevant contribution to a better understanding of the phenomenon of entrepreneurship and its impact on a post-industrial society.
Entrepreneur; networks; innovation; change; growth
