IERC 2026 - International Entrepreneurship, Family Business & Innovation Research Conference

The central theme of the IERC 2026 conference will be the impact of Technology 4.0  including Big Data, IoT, Blockchain, and AI on entrepreneurship and family business. Discussions will explore how these transformative technologies are reshaping business models, decision-making processes, and value creation, particularly in the context of emerging markets like the MENA region. Technology 4.0 is enabling new forms of entrepreneurial activity, challenging traditional business structures, and opening new opportunities for family-owned enterprises to innovate and scale.

IERC 2026 will take place from April 20 to 23, 2026, in Cairo, Egypt, and will focus on the future of entrepreneurship, family business, and education research, with a particular emphasis on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Following the success of previous edition, IERC 2026 will examine how younger generations in the MENA region are driving new entrepreneurial models and business ventures, seeking greater autonomy, workplace flexibility, and higher income opportunities.

Leading scholars have emphasized the significant impact of Technology 4.0 on entrepreneurship and family businesses. For instance, Autio et al. (2018) highlighted how digital technologies enable new business models and enhance the scalability of entrepreneurial ventures. Similarly, Nambisan (2017) emphasized the transformative role of digital platforms and ecosystems in driving innovation and improving access to resources (Obschonka et al., 2025).

In the context of family firms, Chirico et al. (2021) examined how these businesses are embracing digital technologies to strengthen decision-making and maintain competitive advantages in fast-changing markets (Capolupo et al., 2025).

These research insights will provide a robust foundation for the conference’s discussions on technological transformation in the MENA region and beyond.

IERC 2026 aims to foster dialogue between academics, industry leaders, and policymakers, offering a platform to share insights and explore solutions to the challenges and opportunities presented by Technology 4.0. The conference will also provide a unique opportunity for researchers to engage with leading journals and editors through paper development workshops (PDW) and special issues linked to the conference theme.

We also welcome proposals on general topics related to entrepreneurship, family business, and sustainable innovation, as outlined in the track list.