The circulation of knowledge: How returning inventors foster start-up ecosystems

1 Introduction International mobility is a growing phenomenon, driven by a variety of factors, such as the search for better economic conditions, political instability and the aspiration to access better professional and educational opportunities. Migration is often not an isolated event; individuals may move multiple times throughout their lives and, in some cases, choose to return to their home countries after a period abroad. These returnees bring with them a valuable wealth of experiences, skills and networks, which can represent a significant resource both for themselves and for the communities to which they return. Existing literature emphasizes that knowledge and innovation often emerge from the interaction of different realities, fostering knowledge transfer (Lane & Lubatkin, 1998) and the formation of entrepreneurial ecosystems in which participants exchange information and experiences to foster new entrepreneurial ventures (Elia et al., 2020; Nambisan, 2017). Knowledge spillover theory in entrepreneurship (Audretsch, 1995; Audretsch et al., 2015) provides a fundamental framework for understanding the link between knowledge flows and entrepreneurial activity (Acs, Z.J., Audretsch, D.B. & Lehmann, E.E., 2013). Furthermore, several scholars interested in network relationships have recognized the importance of knowledge in networks and its link to competitive success (Baum, Calabrese & Silverman, 2000). Another variable to consider is social capital and how it influences an organization's ability to acquire new knowledge from the network and facilitate its transfer among members (Andrew C. Inkpen and Eric W. K. Tsang, 2005). Several studies also highlight that networks enable the creation of linkages between origin and destination locations, favoring the emergence of extra-regional connections and entrepreneurial initiatives (Kerr, 2008). These connections promote innovation by introducing new ideas and broadening the local knowledge base (Miguélez & Moreno, 2013; Maré et al., 2014; Kerr, 2010; Nathan, 2015). 2 Research gap Inventor mobility is a crucial factor for regional economic development, as it facilitates knowledge transfer and innovation. Although there is an established literature on the role of inventor mobility in fostering innovation through extra-regional networks and connections, how these dynamics translate into specific benefits for regions of origin remains little explored. Furthermore, previous studies have highlighted the role of social networks in facilitating knowledge acquisition and access to international business practices. However, an in-depth understanding of how these networks directly influence the creation of start-ups in entrepreneurs' home regions is lacking. This study aims to explore the role of transnational social networks in startup creation, providing a deeper understanding of how entrepreneurs' international experiences influence local economic development. The main objectives include analyzing knowledge transfer processes and assessing the economic impact of start-ups founded by entrepreneurs with international experiences. 3 Methodology The study adopts a mixed methodology. Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 entrepreneurs from the Italian region of Abruzzo, which in 2025 had 212 innovative startups registered in the Business Registry. The entrepreneurs interviewed must have had international experience before establishing their startup. These interviews aim to identify the role of mobility in shaping innovation, professional connections, and technological knowledge. Key aspects include motivations for returning and launching the startup, participation in associations and academic collaborations both abroad and in the home region, contacts maintained after returning home, and new knowledge acquired. Quantitative data will complement this analysis through a survey administered to a larger sample of startups in Abruzzo. 4 Expected results Expected outcomes include identifying how knowledge transfer and transnational networks stimulate startup creation and regional innovation. The project aims to highlight the economic impact of entrepreneurial initiatives founded by individuals with international experience, offering policy recommendations for strengthening local ecosystems. By shedding light on knowledge circulation through inventor returns, this study contributes to a broader understanding of the link between mobility, innovation, and regional development.