Entrepreneurial Opportunity Recognition in the Face of Disasters

Author ORCID Identifier

Furkan Gur:https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0062-8232

Publication Title

International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour and Research

ISSN

13552554

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Purpose: Disasters drastically affect regional industries; consequently, the study of regional resilience is of much interest to organizational researchers. To that end, this study examines the role of entrepreneurial opportunity recognition, stakeholder engagement, and elements of psychological recovery in the US Gulf Coast following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010. Design/methodology/approach: Through a qualitative content analysis of 183 industry-relevant articles published during and after the disaster, this study unpacks the most significant themes at work in the recovery process, including the psychological elements of the oil spill and its aftermath, the role of various internal and external stakeholders, and emerging opportunities for entrepreneurial activity in the region for regional resilience and recovery. Findings: The nine themes that emerged from the data were captured in three categories mapped over time. Category one, psychogical states during and after the oil spill, include denial, coping, and recovery. Category two, regional recovery efforts and the role of stakeholders, includes the themes distractions, bargains, and material support. Category three, emerging opportunities, includes financial support, new markets, and reparations. Originality/value: By mapping these themes over distinct time periods, this study identifies and explores patterns in the recovery period and use them to draw theoretical and practical implications.

First Page

671

Last Page

693

Publication Date

3-19-2020

DOI

10.1108/IJEBR-09-2019-0537

Keywords

Deepwater horizon oil spill, Entrepreneurial opportunity, Psychological elements of disasters, Qualitative content analysis, Regional recovery

Department

Department of Management

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