Mona Mensmann

Mona Mensmann is an Associate Professor of Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cologne, a position she has held since July 2021. Previously, she served as Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Warwick Business School (2020-2021) and Assistant Professor at the same institution (2018-2020). Her research focuses on the psychology of entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial mindset, and entrepreneurship training, with particular emphasis on personal initiative and its impact on business success.

Dr. Mensmann's educational background includes:

• PhD in Psychology from Leuphana University of Lüneburg (2013-2017)
• Master of Science in Psychology from University of Heidelberg (2011-2013)
• Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology from University of Lüneburg (2007-2011)

Her research primarily investigates how psychological factors influence entrepreneurial success, with special focus on personal initiative training and its long-term effects on business outcomes. Dr. Mensmann has conducted extensive research in developing countries, particularly in West Africa, examining how psychological approaches to business training can outperform traditional methods. Her work on ADHD and entrepreneurship has gained significant attention, including coverage in The Wall Street Journal. She also explores gender differences in crowdfunding and the psychological challenges faced by entrepreneurs emerging from adversity.

Dr. Mensmann's publications reveal a strong focus on the intersection of psychology and entrepreneurship, with particular emphasis on training interventions that build personal initiative. Her research spans multiple contexts including developing economies, educational settings during the pandemic, and equity crowdfunding platforms. A recurring theme is how psychological factors can be leveraged to improve business outcomes and entrepreneurial success.

Her notable recognition includes:

• 2024 IGL Annual Research Prize in the category "Best Experimental Paper"

Dr. Mensmann has been involved in significant research projects, including a major teaching project "Digital Innovation and Sustainable Development" funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia. Her work often involves collaborations with international researchers and institutions, reflecting the global nature of her research interests. She has contributed to understanding how entrepreneurs can overcome challenges related to mental health, adversity, and resource constraints.