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Hybrid Identity Work Strategies of Academic Entrepreneurs: Connection Building and Difference Building

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  • Tero Montonen

Abstract

The case study examines the identity work of academics who have moved to or are considering a work position in a university spin-off company. The main findings outline two strategies of hybrid identity work and related boundary work tactics through which academics build connections and mark differences between science and business. Connection-building strategy highlights commonalities and shared elements between science and business, while the difference-building strategy emphasizes distinctions and separations between them. The analysis is supported by evidence from longitudinal interviews with academics in Finland actively involved in science-based businesses or contemplating such involvement. The main findings show that these strategies were used by both groups in different sensemaking situations. However, those working full-time in a university spin-off company often adopted the connection-building strategy to legitimize their career shift from academia to industry. Conversely, those considering a future position in a university spin-off often relied on the difference-building strategy to problematize and justify their hesitation in accepting such a position.

Suggested Citation

  • Tero Montonen, 2025. "Hybrid Identity Work Strategies of Academic Entrepreneurs: Connection Building and Difference Building," South Asian Journal of Business and Management Cases, , vol. 14(1), pages 29-41, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sajbmc:v:14:y:2025:i:1:p:29-41
    DOI: 10.1177/22779779241312307
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