A framework for developing sustainable architectural entrepreneurship start-ups in Egypt

Purpose This research aims to develop and validate a framework to support the development of sustainable architectural entrepreneurship start-ups (AES) in Egypt by overcoming the challenges that obstruct their development. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative and quantitative research methodology was designed to accomplish four objectives. The literature review investigated the concept of entrepreneurship, the challenges of AES in Egypt and Egypt’s Vision 2030. Four case studies were analysed to validate the identified challenges and strategies adopted to overcome these obstacles. A survey questionnaire was conducted with AES founders in Egypt to assess their perception of entrepreneurship, challenges and strategies adopted to overcome these barriers. Finally, a framework was developed and validated to facilitate the development of sustainable AES in Egypt. Findings Through a literature review, the research identified the highest 17 challenges that obstruct the development of sustainable AES in Egypt and classified them into six categories. Analysis of case studies confirmed various challenges and strategies adopted to overcome these obstacles. Data analysis showed that “financial”, “awareness, educational and training” represent the most influential challenges to AES in Egypt. Moreover, “self-funding through savings” was ranked the highest strategy employed to overcome the financial challenges, while the “continuous learning and skill development” strategy was adopted to address the challenge of awareness, education and training. Practical implications This research presents a practical solution to facilitate the development of sustainable AES in Egypt by overcoming the challenges that obstruct their growth. The framework was explained in a workable way to include the required activities, tools and techniques, involved personnel needed resources and implementation strategies. Originality/value This research identified and analysed the challenges of developing sustainable AES and the strategies adopted to overcome these obstacles. It studied a topic that received scant attention in construction literature related to start-ups in architecture, especially in Egypt. Moreover, this research developed and validated a framework consisting of six domains based on the findings of a literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire to facilitate the development of sustainable AES in Egypt, which represents a novel and creative synthesis that adds value to knowledge in a way that has not previously occurred.