Accessing high-quality longitudinal data with real entrepreneurs remains a significant challenge in entrepreneurship research. While panel surveys like the Kauffman Firm Survey and PSED offered valuable insights, their discontinuation leaves a gap-and provides an opportunity to refine and improve future efforts.
In collaboration with a university-based entrepreneurship office, I'm exploring the development of a new longitudinal panel survey of founders. Current thinking is that the survey would focus on entrepreneurs' behaviors, psychological factors (e.g., well-being, mindset) and key performance outcomes, with an emphasis on capturing data from a diverse cross-section of founders. The focus will be on those building innovation-driven ventures rather than solely solo self-employed individuals.
Input and co-creators are needed to shape this initiative. While I'm writing this from Canada (and am also seeking supporters there), a framework that is adaptable to multiple geographies, and was supported by global collaborators would increase the value for all. A first milestone could be to create a submission for an AOM Symposium related to the development of a new panel survey for entrepreneurs to build support and ideas. In parallel, a steering committee would need to be developed to ensure appropriate design, recruitment etc.
If you have expertise, interest, or resources to share, I'd greatly appreciate your feedback. If this resonates with you, please complete this 5 minute survey (survey link). Or if you prefer, simply respond to this thread. Your input will be invaluable in collecting meaningful longitudinal data that enables researchers to support the entrepreneurial ecosystem. If possible, responding on seeing this would enhance the potential to secure initial support for this initiative.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and working to make this initiative impactful.
Luke DeCoste
Founder turned Researcher (and Org Psych PhD. Student)
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Luke DeCoste
Claremont Graduate University
Halifax NS
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