University incubators performance through the lens of institutional theory

Purpose This study aims to understand the role of university incubation centers (UICs) in fostering startup growth within an academic ecosystem, focusing on enhancing their effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected from startups and incubation centers in Karnataka, India. Warp partial least squares 6.0 was used for path analysis to examine the relationships between institutional pressures, startup performance and resource acquisition. Findings UICs in India effectively support startup growth. Mimetic isomorphism positively influences resource munificence, while normative isomorphism enhances monitoring and assistance. Coercive pressures negatively impact startup performance. Research limitations/implications The research is limited to India. Future studies in other developing countries would help validate and extend these findings, offering a more comprehensive understanding of incubation center dynamics globally. Practical implications This study offers insights on optimizing UIC operations to better support startups. By integrating institutional theory, it highlights the significance of legitimacy, professional standards and strategic location in enhancing incubation center effectiveness. Social implications UICs play a crucial role in bolstering the startup ecosystem, essential for employment generation and economic development in India. Effective incubation centers drive innovation and entrepreneurship, contributing to broader societal benefits. Originality/value This study fills a gap by focusing on South Asia, providing insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by UICs in developing countries and enhancing understanding of incubation practices in these regions.