From Start-Up to Scale-Up: Organizational Growth Challenges in Tech-Start-Ups in China
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53797/ujssh.v4i1.17.2025Keywords:
Tech start-ups, Scaling challenges, Leadership development, Strategic partnerships, Talent retentionAbstract
This study explores the growth challenges and strategies of tech start-ups in China transitioning from start-up to scale-up. The research employs a quantitative approach, utilizing a survey of 250 participants representing various sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, software development, and artificial intelligence. The findings reveal that operational inefficiencies, difficulties maintaining product quality, talent acquisition and retention, financial constraints, and regulatory compliance are among the most significant challenges faced by scaling tech start-ups. Notably, 70% of respondents highlighted operational processes as a significant hurdle, followed by 75% citing talent recruitment issues. Strategies such as leadership development, strategic partnerships, competitive compensation packages, and adopting scalable technology solutions were employed to overcome these challenges. The data demonstrated that 80% of companies saw noticeable improvements through leadership training, while strategic partnerships and scalable technology solutions were effective for 70% and 68% of respondents, respectively. However, despite employer branding efforts, only 65% successfully attracted talent, with 20% finding retention problematic. These findings underscore the complex scaling landscape in the tech industry, revealing critical insights into the strategies that can enhance growth and operational efficiency. This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the importance of integrated strategic approaches for overcoming scaling challenges. It offers practical implications for tech start-ups seeking sustainable growth in the competitive Chinese market.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Yifan Gong, Mohd Yusof Abdullah
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