Governance Composition, Gender Diversity, and Regional Context as Performance Drivers in Italian Innovative Start‐Ups

ABSTRACT Innovative start‐ups play a crucial role in promoting innovation and economic growth, while also contributing to technological competitiveness. This study analyzes the factors influencing the economic performance of these start‐ups, focusing on governance aspects and corporate resources, with particular attention to team composition, company size, and the impact of gender diversity. Additionally, it examines how sector and geographic location may affect access to resources, often linked to public policies and local innovation ecosystems. Using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models on a sample of Italian start‐ups, this article highlights how regional context and policies can represent either a competitive advantage or a barrier for firms. The results suggest that diverse governance, particularly gender diversity, which is associated with a more sustainable and long‐term strategic approach, and location within developed entrepreneurial ecosystems can significantly improve business performance. These findings offer relevant insights for policymakers and entrepreneurs, contributing to a deeper understanding of the economic dynamics of innovative start‐ups in the Italian context.