Toward an agenda for Gen Z in Indian start-ups: a systematic literature mapping and conceptual framework

Abstract This systematic literature review examines how emerging scholarship positions Gen Z in relation to innovation, participation and venture performance in Indian start-ups while distinguishing direct Gen Z evidence from broader youth and student proxies. The review combines bibliometric profiling with qualitative taxonomic synthesis of literature retrieved from Scopus using a predefined TITLE-ABS-KEY Boolean search strategy. The search produced 546 records published between 1975 and May 23, 2026; after removing two duplicates, 544 unique records were retained. Following predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and title, abstract and keyword screening, 199 records were included in the structured thematic synthesis. Qualitative coding organized the literature across three dimensions: roles in start-ups, levels of participation and value-creation domains. Only three records explicitly used Gen Z terminology; consequently, evidence concerning students, youth and young entrepreneurs was treated as proxy evidence for candidate mechanisms rather than direct evidence of Gen Z behavior. The proposed framework is therefore interpretive and agenda setting rather than an established Gen Z taxonomy or evidence of a causal generational effect. Dynamic Capabilities Theory provides the leading theoretical lens, complemented by Human Capital Theory, employee voice and trust perspectives, and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Theory. The review identifies a need for direct, multi-state empirical research examining how Gen Z-relevant resources are converted through participation and dynamic capabilities into innovation and venture outcomes under varying ecosystem conditions.