The development of entrepreneurial culture in a transition economy: an empirical model discussion.

This conceptual paper will focus on the presentation of the model developed from empirical, qualitative research covering 20 years of analysis on the relationship between culture and entrepreneurship in Poland. It is aimed at proposing a comprehensive framework that describes the development of entrepreneurial culture. In this empirical model culture is understood as a set of values and beliefs held by a social group that endorse and are conducive to entrepreneurial behaviour; while entrepreneurial behaviour is treated as an expected outcome and narrowed down to opening the company. The model proves that the differentiation between entrepreneurship (behaviour) and entrepreneurs (who demonstrate this behaviour) needs to be recognised in future research. The case of Poland offers a historical example, which can shed more light on the process of cultural change and the role of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurs in the development of entrepreneurial culture. In the case presented, the behaviour of entrepreneurs has been identified as the key factor leading to further development.