Configuration Paths of the Entrepreneurial Knowledge Evolution of Traditional Skills in China’s Ethnic-Minority Villages

This study investigates the entrepreneurial knowledge evolution (EKE) of traditional skills in China’s ethnic-minority villages. Adopting the perspective of ecological knowledge evolution theory, we analyze the EKE process of traditional skills. Then, using a single case study and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis, we identify the factors and configuration paths of EKE. This study found that 1) six antecedent conditions and five configuration paths that promote EKE; 2) the mentor–apprentice relationship is the core element in all EKE configuration paths; 3) mentor–apprentice interactions are rewards-based reciprocal exchange processes; and 4) knowledge transfer is essential for EKE and complements the mentor–apprentice relationship when there is a high knowledge-potential difference between mentors and apprentices. This study provides theoretical support for achieving EKE and offers insights into entrepreneurial success based on the findings. It also identifies the path-dependent properties of EKE and interprets mentor–apprentice relationships from a microsociological perspective. We also broaden the application of Darwinian knowledge evolution to entrepreneurship studies and highlight the relevance of EKE for various domains. <br>