Executive Innovation Cognition and Growth in Technology Startups

Abstract

Technology startups operate in highly dynamic and uncertain environments where executive decision-making plays a pivotal role in shaping innovation and growth trajectories. This study investigates the relationship between executive innovation cognition and organizational growth in technology startups. Executive innovation cognition is conceptualized as the cognitive orientation of top executives toward opportunity recognition, innovation-driven ideas, risk-taking, learning orientation, and digital awareness. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were collected from executives of early- and growth-stage technology startups using a structured questionnaire. Innovation cognition was measured through a composite index, while growth was assessed using annual revenue growth, market expansion, and employee growth indicators. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and graphical trend analysis were employed to examine the relationship between the variables. The findings reveal a strong positive association between executive innovation cognition and startup growth, indicating that firms led by innovation-oriented executives exhibit superior growth performance. The study contributes to Upper Echelons Theory and innovation management literature by empirically validating the role of executive cognition in driving innovation-led growth. The results offer practical implications for startup leadership development, investor evaluation, and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening innovation ecosystems.