Abstract:

This developmental paper explores how entrepreneurial legacy is transmitted across generations in Japanese family firms, focusing on embodied and cultural practices that go beyond formal succession mechanisms. Drawing on an in-depth case study of a technology-intensive regional manufacturer, the study introduces the concept of Kagyodo—a culturally grounded, practice-based mechanism of legacy transmission. By contrasting this with Western narrative-driven approaches, the study highlights how Kagyodo emphasizes tacit knowledge, ritualized routines, and embodied learning. Data were collected through interviews, oral histories, site visits, and document analysis, and subsequently analyzed using thematic coding and Randolph et al.’s (2019) corporate entrepreneurship typology. Findings suggest that entrepreneurial capacity is cultivated through early exposure, cross-functional training, and the integration of external expertise. Kagyodo emerges as a mediating factor that sustains innovation and strategic renewal across generations. The final paper will include a more detailed case narrative and a complete list of references.

Please choose your submission type: Developmental Paper

Primary Track: Entrepreneurship

Keywords: Entrepreneurship Theories;International entrepreneurship

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Prof Shinsuke Tahara