Objective

The main objective of the present study is to present a startup process growth model based on the competencies of the mentor and mentee.

Methodology

This research is applied in nature and, from the perspective of data analysis, is a multiple case study method. The level of analysis is startups and businesses located in accelerators and growth centers of Khorasan Razavi. Using the purposive sampling method, 25 businesses were subjected to in-depth exploratory analysis and theoretical saturation was achieved. The research tool was a semi-structured interview in accordance with Strauss's conception and through a three-stage coding process, in the open coding stage, 96 concepts were extracted from the interview and theoretical foundations, and with further investigation and connection between the concepts, 30 themes and 6 dimensions were born.

Findings

Based on the designed process growth model, 13 categories (themes) of competence for the mentor and 9 categories (themes) of competence for the mentee can be identified, appropriate to the Iranian entrepreneurial ecosystem. In the ideation and cultivation stage, 6 mentor competencies along with 5 mentee competencies lead to the formation of an optimal business model with 3 characteristics. And to transform the desired business model into business creation and competitive entry, 7 mentor competencies play a role as moderating competencies in the launch and initial growth stage, along with 4 mentee competencies.

Conclusion

The proposed model can act as a strategic model for startup founders to both select a mentor who is appropriately aligned with the competencies of each stage of the startup process. And to become familiar with the competencies that mentees should possess at each stage. This will contribute significantly to the continuity of the startup life cycle, maintaining competitive advantage and long-term success, and sustainable growth.

Keywords: Mentee competencies, mentor competencies, mentoring, startup growth process.