ABSTRACT
This chapter considers how state-endorsed entrepreneurial talents gain recognition in the market economy amidst the two contradictory standards of entrepreneurial talent selection in China. Being able to promise a successful future to potential business partners or investors is essential for business success. I show how entrepreneurial talents engage in talent performatives when building business partnerships or seeking for investments, and what kinds of impressions are delivered. However, the degree to which performative utterance can be realised in the future varies across different start-ups and depends on technological advancements. Drawing on a case study, I show how entrepreneurial talents can be caught in a constant vicious circle of unachievable promises.
