Read the full-text of this article for free

Title: Informal entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial ecosystems: a systematic literature review and future research agenda

Authors: Ghita Naaimy; Karim Messeghem

Addresses: University of Montpellier, MRM, 208 Rue Vendémiaire, 34000 Montpellier, France ' University of Montpellier, MRM, 208 Rue Vendémiaire, 34000 Montpellier, France

Abstract: The evolving dynamics of informal entrepreneurship (IE) within entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) is a complex and under-explored area of research. This article provides a systematic literature review of the intersection between IE EEs, addressing a central gap: EE research often sidelines informal actors, while IE research frequently under-specifies ecosystem mechanisms (networks, culture, intermediaries, and resource access). We synthesise 72 articles (2009-March 2025) using thematic analysis to derive an integrative model and research agenda. The thematic analysis, underpinned by content analysis, discerns thematic threads that offer a solid synthesis of the existing body of knowledge.

Keywords: entrepreneurial ecosystems; informal entrepreneurship; systematic literature review; thematic analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESB.2026.156385

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, 2026 Vol.59 No.5, pp.1 - 31

Received: 22 Oct 2025
Accepted: 04 May 2026
Published online: 15 Sep 2026 *