The role of large corporations in entrepreneurial ecosystems–a case study of Munich

A critical omission in research on entrepreneurial ecosystems is the role of large firms. It is claimed that they are critical actors. However, the current consensus–which suggests that their effects are entirely beneficial–is superficial. We present evidence from a case study of Munich, a city that combines an emerging ecosystem with a strong corporate sector, which indicates that the reality is much more nuanced. We confirm the resource-enriching effects of corporations. However, we also identify adverse impacts on the entrepreneurial culture that arise from their conservative and risk-avoiding mindset.