Studies on incubators have evolved greatly in recent years. However, it is only recently that researchers have begun to focus their work on the question of the performance of these structures. Various research studies have been carried out to identify indicators of success and to design tools to evaluate and measure the performance of these organizations, but few have examined the background and key success factors of these incubators from a modeling perspective. Therefore, we believe that a synthesis of the factors and models leading to incubator performance remains a priority, allowing for a better understanding of the links and effects of each factor as a whole. This article, therefore, attempts to remedy this lack, and proposes a synthesis of scientific research work dealing with the question of the determinants of performance of incubation support structures. In this work we have tried to present a review of the main models that emerge from the literature in order to explain how incubators can gain in efficiency. Based on a methodology that combines the steps of qualitative systemic literature review and snowball methods of article identification, this work has identified three main models based on two main theories: the real options model, the RBV model and the multidimensional model.

Research on the innovation has traditionally focused on the determinants promoting innovation and R&D in SMEs. However, an approach to study the barriers and the decision to innovation among entrepreneurs, seems it never been studied before. Our goal is to focus on this approach. Thus, through a qualitative study using focus groups with entrepreneurs, researchers, and government actors, we were able to identify the main barriers faced by entrepreneurs to innovation. A quantitative study was subsequently possible to draw up an inventory of the situation and generate results to conclude that the main obstacles studied vary according to the type of creation and the phase in the creative process. Finally some managerial implications were discussed towards the end.