Reinforcing education for entrepreneurship in higher education institutions: Poliempreende—Polientrepreneurship Innovation Network

Lisete Mónico; Ana Rita Vieira; Carla Carvalho; Margareth Gomes; Pedro Parreira

doi:10.29073/jer.v3i1.38

Authors

Lisete Mónico University of Coimbra https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9374-2702
Ana Rita Vieira University of Coimbra https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3383-483X
Carla Carvalho University of Coimbra https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3351-5003
Margareth Gomes National School of Public Health
Pedro Parreira Nursing School of Coimbra https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3880-6590

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29073/jer.v3i1.38

Keywords:

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Education, Higher Education, Polientrepreneurship Innovation Network, Innovation Ecosystem

Abstract

Theme: Strengthening entrepreneurship education in higher education is critical to preparing students for dynamic labor markets and fostering innovation ecosystems. In Portugal, the Polientrepreneurship Innovation Network (PIN), rooted in the Poliempreende program, exemplifies a national initiative to embed entrepreneurial practices across polytechnic institutions.

Objectives: This study aims to understand the institutional conditions that support the reinforcement of entrepreneurship education in Portuguese Higher Education Institutions and to identify opportunities for improving the implementation of the Polientrepreneurship Innovation Network (PIN). It is guided by the research question: What institutional conditions and strategic factors influence the implementation and development of the PIN, particularly regarding strategic integration, program development, student outcomes, inter-institutional collaboration, and faculty engagement?

Methods: Drawing on the Triple Helix model and adapting the Framework Conditions Index to the Portuguese context, a qualitative content analysis was conducted on 13 semi-structured interviews with top and middle managers from five polytechnic institutes and two non-integrated schools.

Findings: Four main categories emerged from the analysis: Entry Context, Implementation Conditions, Impact, and Evaluation. These include factors such as strategic embedding, teaching methodologies, institutional interaction, stakeholder engagement, and evaluation practices. Gaps were identified in areas such as promotion, funding, and systematic evaluation.

Implications: The study highlights key enablers and barriers to effective entrepreneurship education, offering strategic insights for strengthening institutional frameworks. Findings support the continued development and potential internationalization of the PIN, positioning it as a critical instrument for sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurial education.

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