E. Erin Powell

E. Erin Powell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Management, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at North Carolina State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Technology Management from NCSU (2011), an M.S. in Textile Technology with a Business Administration minor (2004), and a B.S. in Textile Technology (2002), all from NC State. Prior to her current role, she was a Visiting Assistant Professor at Brown University and an Assistant Professor at Clemson University.

Her research focuses on founder identity dynamics, entrepreneurial resourcefulness, and the motivations driving entrepreneurs. Notable areas include the intersection of founder identity with religion, the role of empathy in resource acquisition, and the influence of social networks on organizational behavior. Her work has been published in top journals such as the Academy of Management Journal and Journal of Business Venturing.

Erin teaches entrepreneurship across undergraduate, MBA, and Ph.D. programs, with a focus on rural community engagement. She serves as a Field Editor for the Journal of Business Venturing (Management and Entrepreneurship). Her articles explore topics ranging from social movements' impact on entrepreneurship to strategic supplier development in politically risky environments.

Her educational background in textile technology and business administration provides a unique lens for examining cross-sector partnerships and resourcefulness in constrained environments. Her research consistently bridges theory and practice, emphasizing real-world applications in entrepreneurial resilience and mission-driven ventures.