The role of entrepreneurship centers and incubators in improving the entrepreneurship in Turkey: Küçükçekmece Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (KÜGİM) example

The aim of this research is to examine the importance and role of entrepreneurship centers and incubators established to support entrepreneurs and accelerate their development in the development of entrepreneurship in the case of Küçükçekmece Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center. In the study, the theoretical framework which is based on literature, datas are colected by written sources such as documents and reports obtained from KÜGİM officials, as well as interviews with center authorities and entrepreneurs. In addition, a survey was conducted for 11 entrepreneurs whom are tenants in the office; the data obtained within the framework of the questions about the reasons of being an entrepreneur, the difficulties they face, the state supports, the reasons for being in the center, the satisfaction level of education, service and physical facilities were evaluated with the case analysis approach from the qualitative research methods. Within the framework of the data obtained as a result of interviews and surveys, it can be stated that KÜGİM has positive effects on ensuring that the entrepreneurs pass the first years when they are most vulnerable and grow in a healthy way. KÜGİM supports the entrepreneurs by open office services, trainings, consultancy, mentoring and infrastructure services free of charge and helps to reduce the running costs of new entrepreneurs, to improve them, and to contribute to the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It is recommended to increase the interaction of entrepreneurs with the university, to encourage cooperation among themselves and to encourage the applications for state supports