The Role of Emerging Technologies of Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain in Intermediary Organizations Facilitating Entrepreneurial Development

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor of Economics, Department of Management and Economics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Golestan University, Gorgan, Iran

2 Assistant Professor of Economics, STI Financing & Economics Departments .National Research Institute for Science Policy, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/jstp.2025.11996.1900

Abstract

This study provides an in-depth, systematic analysis of the role of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain, in reshaping the functions of entrepreneurial intermediary organizations such as accelerators, incubators, and science and technology parks. As entrepreneurial ecosystems become increasingly digitized, these organizations face new challenges and opportunities. Adopting a qualitative approach, this research utilizes the seven-step meta-synthesis method by Sandelowski and Barroso (2007) to synthesize the existing literature. The primary output of this meta-synthesis is the identification of four key organizing themes: (1) Intelligent Enhancement of Traditional Functions; (2) The Emergence of a Dual Paradigm: Disintermediation and Re-intermediation; (3) Empowerment in Vulnerable Ecosystems; and (4) Algorithmic Governance and New Trust Architecture. The findings reveal that, under the "intelligent enhancement" theme, AI optimizes functions such as screening and networking by increasing precision and reducing human bias. Conversely, within the "disintermediation and re-intermediation" paradigm, blockchain challenges traditional business models by offering novel financing mechanisms and algorithmic trust-building. The analysis also indicates that these technologies, particularly within the Iranian context, serve as a tool for "empowerment in vulnerable conditions," offering solutions to overcome institutional barriers. This paper argues that the future success of intermediary organizations in Iran depends on their evolution into the role of "digital ecosystem architects" and their ability to align technological capabilities with the indigenous needs of entrepreneurs.

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Journal of Science and Technology Policy
Volume 18, Issue 3 - Serial Number 67
Special Issue: "The Role of Various Intermediary Organizations in Facilitating Entrepreneurship Development in Iran's Innovation Ecosystem"
October 2025
Pages 1-20

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