Title: Institutional entrepreneurship: territorial intervention strategies in the development of low-density cross-border territories through a Triple Helix lens

Authors: Alex Olivier Alves Rodrigues; Carla Susana da Encarnação Marques

Addresses: CETRAD – Unit Research, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto-Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal ' CETRAD – Unit Research, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto-Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal

Abstract: The objective of this study, from the perspective of Institutional Entrepreneurship (IE), is to understand how territorial intervention strategies (TIS) implemented by Triple Helix agents in low-density cross-border territories, promote the economic and social development. A case study focused on the Science and Technology Brigantia Eco-Park (BE), located in Bragança (Portugal), is proposed. Using a mixed-method approach, 187 anonymous questionnaires were collected from employees of companies and entities based in BE. As results, Institutional Entrepreneurship is positioned as a form of action to promote innovation and territorial development through the implementation of TIS that foster social and economic development. BE stands as the outcome of these agent's actions, presenting results of the impact of this strategy. This study address and explore the theme of IE through the analysis of a case study depicting the actions of entities around a TIS implemented in a low-density cross-border territory.

Keywords: institutional entrepreneurship; TIS; territorial intervention strategies; cross-border territory; Triple Helix.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.148568

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2025 Vol.15 No.1, pp.30 - 52

Received: 22 Jul 2024
Accepted: 24 Mar 2025
Published online: 12 Sep 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article