Ripple effect mapping: A modern approach to participatory action research applied to entrepreneurship ecosystem development

This study examined the application of Ripple Effect Mapping (REM) as a participatory action research method to evaluate the eCommunities entrepreneurship support program in rural Nebraska. Through appreciative inquiry interviews with six economic development professionals and business coaches, followed by collaborative ripple mapping, this research explored how the Energizing Entrepreneurial Communities (E2) framework influences local business deal flow and ecosystem development. Results indicated that effective entrepreneurship ecosystem development requires community readiness, transparent communication, regional connectivity, and sustained implementation across multiple community capitals. The study demonstrates REM’s utility as both an evaluation tool and capacity-building mechanism for economic development practitioners seeking to understand and enhance their program impacts.