Understanding the relationship between coopetition and startups’ resilience: the role of entrepreneurial ecosystem and dynamic exchange capability

Purpose This study aims to grounded in the dynamic capability theory and focuses on the dynamic exchange capability framework, encompassing networkbuilding capability and resource integration capability, to explore the relationship between coopetition and resilience, with ecosystem digitalization serving as the boundary condition. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a survey study among 382 B2B startups with second-hand data from the city level. Findings Startups engaged in coopetition activities can build resilience through the mediating effects of network-building capability and resource integration capability. In addition, ecosystem digitalization positively moderates these relationships. Practical implications This study advocates for entrepreneurs to leverage coopetition to enhance resilience by activating network-building capability and resource integration capability and to apply ecosystem digitalization throughout this transformation process. Originality/value Many studies have discussed how to strengthen the resilience of startups, but the role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in constructing resilience has received little attention. This study contributes to the understanding of the causal relationship between entrepreneurial ecosystem and entrepreneurship, promotes the development of the dynamic exchange capability framework, and sheds light on the flow of resources across borders within ecosystems.