Start-up information search practices: the case of Turkey

Abstract

Information search may be especially crucial in an emerging economy context where gaps in knowledge are magnified due to the limited availability, accessibility, and quality of sources. Under the framework of social embeddedness, we observe the role of previous entrepreneurial experience in information search conducted during start-up. The impact of information search on future growth is also explored. Based on an empirical study of 172 Turkish entrepreneurs, the results indicate that (1) first-time entrepreneurs search more intensely, (2) first-time entrepreneurs utilize a greater number of formal resources, and (3) the intensity of information search is positively related with future growth.