Building Founders: How Finnish Entrepreneurship Societies Shape Their Alumni as Startup Founders

Abstract

This thesis examines how involvement in Finnish Entrepreneurship Societies (ESs) is perceived to have influenced the entrepreneurial paths of ES alumni who have founded startups. The study explores whether ES involvement is perceived to contribute to improved access to funding, better co-founder networks and enhanced professionalism in entrepreneurship. A mixed-method approach was applied. Combining survey data from 23 respondents with three interviews. The survey provided an overview of the perceived benefits, while the interviews offered deeper look into individual experiences. The analysis utilized human capital theory, social capital theory and entrepreneurial leadership theory. The theories emphasize acquired skills, social ties and entrepreneurial development. The findings suggest that while ESs do not directly provide funding or investment opportunities, they play a significant role in developing networks that may play a significant part in indirect financial benefits or possibilities. Additionally, respondents reported improved networking, leadership and project management abilities. ESs were also perceived as environments for community, experimentation and formation of entrepreneurial identity. ES involvement was experienced to strengthen the human capital and social capital. The study concludes that while ES participation may not guarantee access to direct investments or funding, the involvement was perceived to contribute to founders’ credibility, competence and network-based opportunities.