Journal of Intelligent Strategic Management

Journal of Intelligent Strategic Management

An Analysis of the Business Model Canvas in Startups (Case Study: Technology-Based Units Housed in Lorestan Province Incubators)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Business Management, Ahv.c, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
2 Department of Business Management, Arv.C., Islamic Azad University, Abadan, Iran
3 Department of Business Management, Ahv.C., Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
Abstract
Rapid technological advancements, increasing competition, constantly changing customer needs, and resource constraints have compelled startups and technology-based units to continuously review and develop their business models. In this context, the business model canvas—serving as an integrated framework for identifying customers, designing value propositions, defining key activities and resources, managing revenues and costs, and establishing strategic relationships and partnerships—plays a pivotal role in the formation and development of emerging businesses. This study aims to identify and prioritize the factors influencing business model canvas development within technology-based startups located in the business incubators of Lorestan Province. The research is applied in nature and employs a quantitative methodology. The research model was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire, drawing on the perspectives of 142 managers and deputies involved in business model development within these technology-based units. Data analysis was conducted using SmartPLS software and the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method. Evaluation of the measurement model confirmed the satisfactory reliability and validity of the constructs. Furthermore, the coefficient of determination ($R^2$) was found to be 0.745, and the predictive relevance ($Q^2$) was 0.375, indicating the model's strong explanatory and predictive power. Findings from the structural model revealed that five overarching themes—"product/service development," "team development and empowerment," "convergence and support," "economic sustainability," and "opportunity discovery"—influence business model canvas development. Among these factors, "opportunity discovery" exerted the greatest direct impact on business model canvas development, with a path coefficient of 0.350 and a t-statistic of 5.162. Subsequently, economic sustainability, convergence and support, team development and empowerment, and product/service development ranked next in importance. The findings suggest that enhancing startups' capabilities—specifically in identifying market opportunities, analyzing customer needs, leveraging local potential, and rapidly adapting to environmental changes—could serve as the most significant driver for developing the business ecosystem within the technology-based units of Lorestan province.
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