Literature Review:

• We conducted a structured review of academic studies, accelerator reports, and industry benchmarks to map the most common drivers of startup success, such as access to capital, mentorship, team dynamics, and market timing. This provided a foundation of evidence-based factors to guide our primary research.

Qualitative Analysis:

• Through in-depth interviews and small-group discussions with entrepreneurs and program participants, we explored lived experiences, barriers, and enablers of business growth. These conversations revealed nuanced perspectives on resilience, resource constraints, and the role of coaching in shaping outcomes.

Survey Validation:

• We designed and deployed a structured survey to a broader sample of entrepreneurs, testing the relative importance of different success factors identified in earlier phases. The data allowed us to quantify which conditions most reliably predicted stronger growth trajectories and where targeted program interventions would have the greatest impact.