Abstract
This opening chapter contextualises Singapore's entrepreneurial rise, interrogating the city-state's celebrated rankings against its less-discussed trade-offs. It situates entrepreneurship within a policy-engineered ecosystem - dense with state grants, venture capital and world-class human capital - yet tempered by cultural barriers to risk-taking, intense work culture and widening wealth gaps. The authors map the evolution from a developmental state to a more innovation-driven economy. By outlining the book's multi-case methodology, abductive reasoning stance and diverse industry coverage, the chapter frames a research agenda that looks beyond boosterism to examine how entrepreneurs navigate a globally plugged-in environment. It challenges readers to consider whether Singapore's successes can be replicated and the challenges faced.