Attracting and Retaining Innovative Talent in Region

Abstract

Entrepreneurial success depends on several ecosystem-related factors, including social capital, the presence of support structures, and the ability to leverage the unique characteristics of a given territory. While innovative entrepreneurship can emerge across an entire territory, entrepreneurs operating in regional areas face challenges that differ significantly from those encountered in metropolitan environments. This paper explores regional entrepreneurship as a lens through which to better understand the opportunities, challenges, and barriers associated with starting and growing innovative ventures outside major urban centers. Labor shortages are particularly acute in more remote regions, which often contend with limited infrastructure and greater distance from markets, suppliers, and specialized resources. In this context, attracting and retaining innovative entrepreneurs can be especially challenging. The objective of this research is to identify ways to strengthen regional entrepreneurial ecosystems and enhance their capacity to attract, support, and retain innovative entrepreneurs. To address this issue, the study adopts an action research approach based on focus groups conducted with innovative entrepreneurs established in 10 remote regions. Five sectors with strong potential for innovation were targeted: technology, culture, agriculture, the social economy, and green technologies. The project seeks to foster the exchange of best practices while recognizing the distinctive characteristics and development needs of each region. Consistent with the principles of action research, the study aims not only to generate knowledge but also to produce practical outcomes that can be readily implemented by regional stakeholders. Preliminary findings identify four key attractiveness factors, three major regional strengths, and six significant challenges, along with potential solutions to address them.