Ethical clearance number: NWU-01898-22-A4

The purpose of this research study is to develop an entrepreneurial ecosystem framework for public universities in South Africa. The target population of the study comprises university academics in entrepreneurship and business management, support staff responsible for entrepreneurship development and management involved with entrepreneurial strategy development and implantation at South African universities.

It would be greatly appreciated if you could assist me by agreeing to participate in an online, interview. Participation in this study is completely voluntary, and you may withdraw from the study at any point. The interview schedule will be sent to you two days prior to the interview for you to become acquainted with the questions and topics of discussion. The interview should take about 40 to 60 minutes. Confidentiality of all information is guaranteed, and no personal details linking you to this specific study will be included (e.g., name, address); that is, your anonymity, as well as the anonymity of the institution at which you are employed, is guaranteed. Demographical questions will be used for sample description purposes and will be reported in aggregate form.

Please find the consent form attached for your perusal. If you would like to participate in the study, please e-mail Annelie.Steenkamp@nwu.ac.za. I will then contact you to set up a date and time that is most convenient for you. Your input will be greatly appreciated.

Researcher: Annelie Steenkamp

Supervisors: Professor Luzaan Hamilton & Professor Liandi van den Berg