The Courage to Cross Over: A Case Study of Identity Evolution in Academic Entrepreneurship

Abstract

This study examines unexpected events and critical incidents that shape identity development in an academic entrepreneur. Using an intensive case study approach, we analyse how these critical incidents influence identity reconstruction, entrepreneurial motivation, and the shift from academic to entrepreneurial contexts. We also study the role of experienced colleagues in fostering the courage to take the first entrepreneurial step. The research data consists of in-depth interviews with the entrepreneur and observations made over six years on their career development. Their company has since secured significant seed funding and a partnership with a global investor. Additional data sources include press releases and media reports, investor pitching materials, and company records from the Orbis database. The data is analysed through a Critical sensemaking (Helms Mills, Thurlow & Mills, 2010) framework, highlighting identity construction in the social context, where interactions and events shape decision-making. Individual passion and will, environmental factors, and the social dynamics of existing networks characterise personal development from academic researcher to entrepreneur. While the outcome was a successful business, alternative paths remained equally viable. In the early stages, high hopes and unrealistic expectations often drive decisions. However, after establishing a formal company, the entrepreneur faces increased responsibilities, such as ensuring employee salaries and satisfying shareholders. According to our research, only at this stage does the academic identity undergo a true transformation. European innovation policies and university strategies encourage researchers to commercialise their research-based inventions. Although forms of support have been developed for starting a company, external support is often lacking for researchers' support and growth. This study highlights critical stages where forms of support should be developed to meet society's expectations. The path from researcher to entrepreneur is not linear but characterised by interactions of internal and external factors. This study contributes to the literature on entrepreneurial identity by demonstrating through a critical sensemaking approach how social contexts influence the evolution of academic entrepreneurs. Research shows that different forms of support are needed for the researcher-entrepreneur path to meet societal expectations.