Innovation and Entrepreneur Learning in the Tourism Sector: Cross-Case Analysis in Small and Medium Enterprises in the city of Aracaju, Sergipe

Abstract The process of entrepreneurial learning is evident in the introduction of innovations in small tourism businesses. However, while there is general agreement that learning is an essential condition for generating innovations, few studies have explored the relationship between these topics. This study aimed to investigate how entrepreneurs of small and medium-sized tourism companies in the city of Aracaju learn to innovate and what types of innovation are adopted in these companies. To achieve this goal a conceptual model was built based on the type of innovation, on interorganizational learning concept and learning types and dimension models. The research strategy adopted was to study multiple cases and eight cases concerning small and medium-sized hotels/inns and travel agencies. The interviews were carried out with entrepreneurs using a semi-structured script. Cases were analyzed individually and afterwards a cross-case analysis was elaborated. It was found that the entrepreneurs undergo a continuous learning process to innovate, and this learning occurs both as individual and from established relationships with other individuals (group learning) or institutions (interorganizational learning).