Presenting Conceptual Framework for Formation of University-based Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Tehran

This paper presents a Conceptual Framework for formation of university-based Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Tehran and its indicators using a qualitative method. The conceptual Framework of the research includes a 3×4 matrix whose rows show the position of the ecosystem in life cycle (i.e. the 4 stages of emergence, Activation, Integration andMaturity) and the columns indicate the ecosystem formation model (i.e. the 3 states of organic and community-oriented, systematic and university-based, and a combination of both). Further in the qualitative section, the suggested indicators of the conceptual Framework were determined through thematic analysis and thematic network.In the quantitative section, the conceptual Framework and its dimensions were verified using the Delphi method. The following Four life cycle indicators were then identified: the level of development of entrepreneurship infrastructures, strength of the communication network between ecosystem actors, Culcural & Manegerial Infrastructures and the resources available in the ecosystem.The following six indicators were also identified for the ecosystem formation: the extent of Student and Alumni intervention, andNon Academic Factors.