Entrepreneurial growth has a massive impact on economic development, yet many ventures face constraints that restrict their expansion. This systematic literature review examines the nature of these growth constraints, and the strategic responses entrepreneurs employ to manage them. Drawing from 87 empirical studies, we categorize constraints at the micro (intellectual or cultural beliefs), meso (human and financial capital shortages, social capital deficiencies), and macro levels (cultural norms, formal institutions, market distortions). We extend Oliver’s (1991) framework of strategic responses by introducing a typology of responses that reflects varying degrees of entrepreneurial agency, ranging from passive endurance to proactive manipulation of constraints. Our findings reveal that power dynamics, social capital, or ecosystem maturity play important roles in determining the strategies available to entrepreneurs. Moreover, we highlight gaps in the literature, such as the need for longitudinal studies to understand the cyclical nature of constraints and responses over time. This review provides a structured framework for future research and offers practical insights for entrepreneurs and policymakers.
