Framework for Evaluating Governmental Support in the Urban Entrepreneurship Ecosystem of Tehran Using a Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Today, the world stands on the threshold of the Fifth Industrial Revolution. This new paradigm is based on the convergence of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, robotics, virtual and augmented reality, and biotechnologies. With the rapid evolution of the Industry 4.0 paradigm and the emergence of the Industry 5.0 landscape, there is an urgent need to examine and analyze the enabling or inhibiting factors of effective technology transfer processes. Technology transfer refers to the systematic movement of knowledge from individuals or organizations that have generated it to others, so that it may be utilized for producing new products or delivering innovative services. The present research was conducted with the aim of exploring the dimensions and key components affecting technology transfer within the Industry 5.0 framework, with a particular focus on the technological entrepreneurship approach. This is of critical importance, since technological entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in advancing innovation and transforming scientific achievements into commercialized products and services. In this study, the qualitative Sandelowski and Barroso meta-synthesis method was employed. The process began with a systematic review of 457 initial articles, and eventually, 28 articles relevant to the research objectives were selected. Inclusion criteria comprised articles published in the field of technological entrepreneurship and Industry 5.0 during the period from 2017 to 2024. To assess the reliability of the findings, Cohen’s Kappa coefficient (0.72) was applied, which indicates acceptable reliability. For validating the proposed model and enhancing its credibility, expert review techniques were used. Moreover, the results were confirmed and revised by domain experts. Based on the findings derived from the meta-synthesis, 55 components were identified and categorized into five main dimensions as influencing factors on technology transfer within the Industry 5.0 framework through a technological entrepreneurship lens. These dimensions include: (1) technological innovation ecosystems, comprising technological infrastructure, specialized human capital, and free flow of knowledge; (2) agile and flexible business models aligned with rapid technological changes; (3) collaborative partnerships among diverse actors of the innovation ecosystem; (4) digitalization of processes and data-driven decision-making; and (5) appropriate legal, policy, and supportive frameworks. The findings of this study highlighted the significance of adopting entrepreneurial strategies and approaches in order to facilitate and shape technology transfer processes within the Industry 5.0 landscape. Results indicated that success in technology transfer in this domain requires comprehensive attention to infrastructural, commercial, legal, and interactive factors within an integrated innovation ecosystem. By identifying and clarifying the key factors involved in successful technology transfer initiatives in Industry 5.0, this study provides insights and practical guidance for policymakers, technological entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders engaged in these processes. These findings can substantially contribute to strengthening technology transfer mechanisms and guiding innovative orientations in the forthcoming era of Industry 5.0.