In our recent study published in the Journal of Management Studies, we delved into the conditions by which new ventures navigate resource constraints through the strategy of bricolage, particularly when faced with environmental threats. Our research offers a fresh perspective by integrating regulatory fit theory with the existing bricolage literature, addressing the inconsistencies often found in understanding entrepreneurs’ responses to resource-constrained environments. 

Why is our study interesting? 

Bricolage, essentially the practice of making do with what is available, has emerged as a vital strategy for new ventures striving to thrive despite limited resources. Our study reveals that the inclination to engage in bricolage is significantly influenced by the entrepreneur’s dispositional regulatory focus. Specifically, we found that entrepreneurs with a promotion focus, driven by aspirations and potential gains, are more inclined to engage in bricolage. In contrast, those with a prevention focus, motivated by security concerns and risk aversion, tend to shy away from this adaptive strategy. 

How did we study this? 

To test our hypotheses, we conducted a time-lagged survey involving 396 Taiwanese entrepreneurs. The data collected provided robust evidence supporting our theoretical framework. The results indicate that both promotion and prevention regulatory foci can weaken the direct relationship between environmental threats and the adoption of bricolage. This nuanced understanding underscores the importance of individual entrepreneurial characteristics in shaping responses to challenging environmental conditions. 

How is this study relevant to academics? 

Our research makes significant contributions to both the theory of bricolage and regulatory fit theory. By identifying regulatory focus as a pivotal factor, we help reconcile previously inconsistent findings in the literature, offering a clearer picture of how environmental conditions and entrepreneurial dispositions interact. This insight not only advances academic discourse but also has practical implications for entrepreneurs and policymakers. 

One of the critical takeaways from our study is the realization that entrepreneurial success in resource-constrained environments is not solely dependent on external factors but is also deeply intertwined with internal dispositions. Entrepreneurs who can align their regulatory focus with their strategic approaches to problem-solving are better equipped to navigate the complexities of resource scarcity and environmental threats. 

How is this study relevant to practitioners? 

For practitioners, understanding the interplay between regulatory focus and bricolage can inform the development of training programs and support systems tailored to different entrepreneurial mindsets. For instance, fostering a promotion-focused mindset could be beneficial in environments where resource improvisation and innovation are crucial for survival and growth. 

Our findings offer valuable insights for designing entrepreneurial training and support programs. For example, promoting a mindset that encourages resource improvisation and innovation can be particularly effective in resource-constrained environments. Additionally, policymakers can use this knowledge to create environments that support diverse entrepreneurial mindsets, enhancing the resilience of new ventures. 

Additionally, policymakers can draw on our findings to create supportive environments that consider the psychological profiles of entrepreneurs. By facilitating conditions that promote a balanced regulatory focus, they can enhance the overall resilience and adaptability of new ventures, ultimately contributing to economic stability and growth. 

Our study not only enriches academic knowledge but also provides actionable insights for entrepreneurs navigating the challenging landscape of resource constraints and environmental threats. This work is a testament to the critical role of psychological and strategic alignment in fostering entrepreneurial resilience and innovation in the face of adversity.