Main elements involved in the startup scalability process: a study on Brazilian agtechs

Abstract

Abstract – Purpose – The study aimsto analyze the main elements associated with the evolution of Brazilian agtechs from the initial conception of the business model to becoming companies in the scale-up stage. Design/methodology/approach – The exploratory research was conducted based on data collected through in-depth interviews. The answers were analyzed quantitatively using descending hierarchical classification (DHC) and correspondence factor analysis (CFA) and qualitatively using content analysis. Findings – Five main elements were identified as responsible for the evolution of the companies up to their entering the scale-up phase: (1) governance, (2) decisions inherent to resource allocation, (3) monitoring of strategic, tactical and operational activities, (4) fostering human capital development and (5) business model validation. Each element presents a set of performance indicators that show the scalability of these companies. Practical implications – The model developed can help companies that have not yet advanced from the conception of the business model to the scalability of different sectors, in addition to agribusiness. Social implications – Proposal of a model that presents the main elements that impact on scalability and respective indicators that contributed to the scalability process of Brazilian agtechs. Originality/value – This study contributed to advancing the knowledge on the organizational life cycle (OLC) of agricultural startups, particularly regarding the factors responsible for their scalability.

Keywords

• Business model innovation
• Entrepreneurship
• Scalability
• Startups
• Agribusiness