Innovation and Entrepreneurship Collaborative
Summary
About the IEC
We engage in thought leadership, practice and courses relating to a broad range of topics relating to innovation. The common interest is in how people develop the capabilities to increase productivity in context of a place, and how their actions can be shaped by policy. This includes research on entrepreneurship education and the future of work, startups, innovation districts, innovation systems and inclusiveness. Many of our projects have a pathway to impact built-in through collaborating with project funders.
Teams: General | Innovation and Entrepreneurship Collaborative (IEC)
www: https://iec.uts.edu.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/utsiec/ Google Scholar: link
We believe that innovation thrives in vibrant, connected places. Our work in place-based entrepreneurship explores how precincts, districts, and ecosystems can become powerful engines of inclusive growth and creative collaboration. By bridging research and practice, we help shape environments where startups scale, communities flourish, and bold ideas take root. From local innovation hubs to global case studies, we’re building the future—one place at a time.
We understand that great ideas need more than vision—they need support. Our research dives deep into the systems that empower entrepreneurs: mentoring, grants, incubators, and accelerators. We explore how these structures shape journeys from startup to scaleup, and how they can be designed to be more inclusive, impactful, and future-ready. By connecting evidence with action, we help build ecosystems where innovation is nurtured, resilience is cultivated, and bold ventures thrive.
We believe entrepreneurship should be accessible to all. Our work in minority entrepreneurship shines a light on the unique journeys of founders from diverse backgrounds—including those with disabilities, immigrants, and veterans. Through evidence-based research and community collaboration, we explore how tailored support systems can unlock potential, foster resilience, and drive equitable innovation. We’re committed to building ecosystems where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to lead, grow, and inspire.
We delve into how entrepreneurship can regenerate communities, restore ecosystems, and build resilience in the face of global challenges. Our work in sustainable entrepreneurship goes beyond profit—it’s about purpose. We investigate how founders and ventures can drive environmental, social, and economic renewal through bold, values-driven innovation. From circular economy models to climate-conscious startups, we’re helping shape a future where business is a force for sustainable change.
We explore how entrepreneurship can be a catalyst for social change. Our work in social entrepreneurship spans not-for-profit (NFP) ventures, impact investing, and mission-driven startups that put people and planet first. We investigate how bold ideas, backed by sustainable models and values-led leadership, can tackle society’s most pressing challenges. By connecting research with real-world impact-we help build ecosystems where doing good and doing well go hand in hand.
We are shaping the next generation of changemakers, by advancing how entrepreneurial skills are taught, nurtured, and applied. Our work spans education and pedagogy, intrapreneurship, commercialisation training, and employability—empowering individuals to turn ideas into impact. Whether inside startups or established organisations, we explore how entrepreneurial thinking drives innovation, adaptability, and meaningful careers. Through research-led learning, we’re building a future where capability meets opportunity.