Strategic Transformation Towards an Entrepreneurial University: Developing A University-Based Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Legal Entity Public University

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of the entrepreneurial university concept at Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), an Institute of Teacher Training and Education (LPTK) that has obtained PTNBH status. Employing a qualitative approach, this study examined the roles of internal actors, organizational dynamics, as well as the driving and inhibiting factors in the formation of a university-based entrepreneurship ecosystem (U-BEE). Using an exploratory qualitative design, the study draws on institutional theory and entrepreneurship ecosystem perspectives. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with university leaders, academic staff, business managers, and students. Thematic analysis was used to construct a conceptual framework based on empirical insights. The study found that the synergy between academic, corporate, and business clusters generates innovation, value creation, and socio-economic impact. A conceptual model for implementing the entrepreneurial university was developed using an input–process–output framework that integrated institutional theory and entrepreneurial ecosystem theory. Inputs consisted of organizational, personal, and environmental resources; the process included teaching, research, and entrepreneurship, while the outputs comprised innovation, institutional reputation, and financial sustainability. These findings underscore the urgency of institutional mindset transformation and cross-functional actor collaboration in strengthening PTNBH. The findings offer actionable strategies for higher education institutions in developing countries aiming to embed entrepreneurship institutionally. They highlight the importance of visionary leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and policy alignment to build resilient university-based entrepreneurship ecosystems. This study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on entrepreneurial transformation in public universities in the Global South. It introduces a nuanced empirical model of U-BEE formation and offers theoretical advancement by integrating institutional theory with entrepreneurial ecosystem thinking in higher education contexts.