ABSTRACT
Structure of the chapter The chapter starts with a brief consideration of the social structure of an entrepreneurial environment, the foundation on which suitable or ineffectual conditions prevail. The social structure of an entrepreneurial environment is determined by the interplay of a number of factors which could be broadly described as institutional norms and practices. A short review of institutions and their part in creating an entrepreneurial environment is undertaken in the second part of this chapter. A range of institutions and their evolution in formal or informal terms help to create or constrain the framework conditions that form the basis for entrepreneurial activity determining, shaping and influencing such activity in different environments. Framework conditions are explored in Part III. A discussion on different models and the contexts in which various models can be found takes place in Part IV of the chapter, while Part V poses questions on the possibility of the emergence of a consensus view of a favourable entrepreneurial environment. Part VI then returns to the broad question of contexts and signs off with a brief reflection on approaches to developing an environment conducive to effective entrepreneurship before the conclusion.
