How do Circular Design Hub Kampala and StartLAB Brussels contribute to the economic development of their respective local ecosystems through entrepreneurship and innovation, and what specific factors account for the differences in their impact?

Details

Supervisors

Mossay, Emmanuel

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur de gestion, à finalité spécialisée
Master [120] en sciences de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

Innovation hubs are shaping the entrepreneurial landscapes in both developed and developing countries by fostering dynamic environments conducive to startup growth. This thesis investigates the role of two specific innovation hubs: StartLAB Brussels and Circular Design Hub (CDH) Kampala, and their contributions to local economic development through entrepreneurship and innovation. Despite the growing recognition of these hubs, there is limited understanding of the differences in their broader impacts within their unique contexts. Therefore, this research aims to explore how these hubs facilitate innovation, access to resources, networking, collaboration, and their socioenvironmental impacts. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the study involves direct observations during internships, interviews, and surveys targeting both hub staff and entrepreneurs. The findings highlight the significant contributions of both hubs in promoting economic growth, providing essential support services, and fostering collaborative networks. However, notable differences were observed in their operational challenges and impacts due to the contrasting entrepreneurial environments in Belgium and Uganda, as well as their different positioning. The results emphasize the importance of tailored support mechanisms to adapt to their distinct local contexts. Based on these findings, recommendations are provided for StartLAB and CDH to support entrepreneurship in their ecosystems. This study underscores the critical role of innovation hubs in addressing global entrepreneurial challenges. Finally, it calls for further research to explore how innovation hubs can effectively use digital platforms and gain a deeper understanding of their broader social and environmental impacts.