Opportunity identification and identity creation in non-profit organizations

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to deepen the authors’ understanding of how identity influences opportunity perception in non-profit organizations. The authors expand to the discussion about opportunity perception by including the concepts of organizational identity, collective entrepreneurial cognition, co-creation and storytelling. Design/methodology/approach The study reports on a qualitative analysis of interviews, observations, reflections and other material produced during a European Union-financed project called FöreningsKICK. All in all, 35 workshops and lectures on how to develop associations have been held for 345 participants, representing 120 associations. Findings A collective identity is important because it influences how opportunities are perceived. A weak team spirit and a weak identity may even lead to situations where member choose to ignore good opportunities because they feel that pursuing the ideas would result in too much work for them personally. Contrariwise, a strong collective identity fosters an atmosphere of trust, which makes the members more willing to recognize and pursue opportunities. Research limitations/implications This is a case study in a limited geographical area. To ensure generalizability, more research is needed. Practical implications The authors’ model provides a good opportunity to point out strategic and communicational shortcomings in organizations. When these are resolved, the result is a stronger organizational identity and new opportunities. Originality/value This study bridges a research gap by shifting focus of the entrepreneurial cognition research from an individual perspective to a collective perspective.

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