The key to success: Why university startups don’t perform as well as corporate startups
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 28-Jan-2026 04:11 ET (28-Jan-2026 09:11 GMT/UTC)
University Startup Entrepreneurs (USEs) possess the scientific knowledge and institutional support necessary to build and sustain high-tech ventures. But why are they not as successful as Corporate Startup Entrepreneurs (CSEs)? Empirical evidence suggests that differences in motivations, culture, knowledge, and identity could be the answer. USEs seek intellectual stimulation over financial success, struggle with accepting their entrepreneurial identity, and lack knowledge of the market and customers, putting them at a disadvantage compared to CSEs.