Cracking the Cultural Codes of Entrepreneurs

Understanding cultural codes around the world can help entrepreneurs better achieve success and unlock innovation.

by Adrian Garcia-Aranyos

Generally speaking, entrepreneurship is a process of innovation, risk-taking, and value creation that transcends borders. This is particularly true when we consider its potential multiplier effect – the larger impact that entrepreneurial efforts have on society and the economy at large. However, the nature of entrepreneurship and the behaviors that define success are very much influenced by culture, the customs, traditions and heritage that shape a place and its people. From Silicon Valley to Ho Chi Minh City, the entrepreneurial ecosystem is shaped by the values, beliefs, and behaviors that are ingrained in a culture, otherwise known as “cultural codes.” Understanding these codes and how they operate is key for entrepreneurs navigating different ecosystems and those who aim to promote innovation and growth in their regions and within their sectors.

Innovation Across Borders

Entrepreneurship is driven by a set of aspirations – some founders aim to create value, while others hope to solve pressing global problems. But one aspiration is shared by all entrepreneurs – they want to challenge the status quo. They want to build something new and scale it. However, the way this is realized can vary greatly from one country to another.

In Silicon Valley, entrepreneurial culture is characterized by a high tolerance for risk, a drive to innovate, and a strong emphasis on self-reliance, personal branding, and individual achievement. The United States’ “fail fast, fail often” mindset encourages rapid iteration and experimentation. In Silicon Valley, failure is seen as a necessary step in the learning process – it is a step on the road to future success. This American entrepreneurial culture, driven by personal ambition, also extends to the United Kingdom.

In cultures with a more conservative approach to business, such as Spain, Greece or Italy, higher value is placed on stability and quality. In these ecosystems, entrepreneurs may be more cautious and deliberate, preferring to build their businesses slowly but with a focus on long-term sustainability.

Similarly, in emerging markets like Türkiye or Argentina, entrepreneurship is often driven by necessity rather than opportunity. The entrepreneurial spirit in such economies is frequently born out of a need to find solutions to pressing local challenges. This shapes a culture of entrepreneurship where resourcefulness and adaptability are more valued than innovation. Entrepreneurs in such ecosystems may be more focused on finding immediate solutions rather than scaling global tech startups, although, of course one can very well lead to the other.

Further, in contrast to the individualism of entrepreneurship in countries like the United States, in more “collaborative” cultures, such as in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the emphasis is on cooperation and interdependence. In these societies, an entrepreneur’s success is often measured by their ability to contribute to the well-being of the collective. The decision-making process tends to be more collaborative, and failure is seen as a reflection of the group rather than a single individual.

Türkiye’s Unique Cultural Code

Türkiye offers a fascinating case study of how cultural codes influence entrepreneurship and how this goes beyond sectors. Türkiye has, in recent years, seen massive success in a range of industries. In the food delivery business, Yemeksepeti was acquired by Delivery Hero in May 2015 for $589 million, marking a substantial milestone in Türkiye’s tech industry. Turkish mobile gaming company Peak Games was acquired by Zynga in June 2020 for $1.8 billion, representing one of the largest gaming exits in the region. Papara has seen global success as a fintech platform, while the software company Insider announced a $500 million Series E funding round in November 2024.

Looking at this from afar, it seems that Türkiye’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultural influences has shaped its entrepreneurial ecosystem positively. 

Historically, Türkiye has been a hub for trade and commerce. Its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East has made it a melting pot of different ideas and practices. This cosmopolitan heritage has fostered an entrepreneurial mindset that is both innovative and adaptable. At the same time, Türkiye’s deep-rooted cultural codes add a positive complexity to the entrepreneuriallandscape.

One of the defining features of Turkish entrepreneurship is the importance of trust and relationships. In Türkiye, personal connections do matter. It is common for entrepreneurs to rely on close friends, and business associates from their community to help get a business off the ground. These networks provide needed support. However, Turkish entrepreneurs also face a unique set of challenges. While the country’s young, dynamic population provides a fertile ground for innovation, Turkish entrepreneurs must navigate a complex regulatory environment, constant economic instability, and
cultural attitudes toward risk.

Another defining aspect of entrepreneurship in Türkiye has been the strength of its diaspora, driven to seek better opportunities abroad. This has also contributed to a wealth of well-connected entrepreneurs outside of Türkiye who still mentor and reinvest in their community from afar.

Finally, one can’t forget the importance of education and knowledge transfer. In Türkiye, entrepreneurs often seek guidance from mentors, business incubators, and international networks, such as Endeavor. The growing number of entrepreneurial accelerators in cities like Istanbul is a testament to the country’s evolving entrepreneurial culture. These initiatives are helping shift the country’s mindset toward more structured forms of entrepreneurship, where failure is reframed as a stepping stone to success.

Bridging the Cultural Gap

Entrepreneurs operating in a globalized world must understand cultural codes in order to be successful. Whether they are entering new markets, forming international partnerships, or expanding their reach, those who want to launch new businesses must be able to navigate different cultural landscapes with sensitivity and adaptability – especially in Türkiye.

For global entrepreneurs, the lesson is clear: cultural codes are not obstacles to overcome but opportunities to tap into. By understanding local values, behaviors, and expectations, entrepreneurs can design products, services, and strategies that resonate with consumers, build strong partnerships, and ultimately thrive in diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems.