Performance evaluation model for incubated companies using the multicriteria decision aid methodology

Creating value and stimulating improvements in business performance are fundamental parts of an organization and its decision-making process, regardless of its size or scope. However, young and smaller companies have a greater difficulty in this process due to the lack of resources or knowledge, making them more vulnerable to competition. In this context, business incubators appear promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through the creation of an environment aimed at supporting and strengthening micro and small companies. The incubator has the role of monitoring and following the evolution of the supported enterprises and thus offering services that meet their needs. The objective of the present work is to create a performance evaluation model for technology- based incubated companies, using the multicriteria decision aid methodology (MCDA) and also respecting the guidelines of the CERNE model (Reference Center for Support to New Enterprises). As for the method, this work is classified as exploratory-descriptive, of qualitative-quantitative nature and with regard to procedures it adopts the case study. For the construction of the model, the context was identified with the decision maker, then the performance evaluation model was built, and its consisted of 23 indicators distributed in the five dimensions proposed by CERNE. In the third stage, the model was validated and modeled using the ELECTRE-TRI method to classify the companies in the desired assessment levels. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis and evaluation of the results were carried out. The developed model demonstrated relevance and applicability to the reality of the Inova Metrópole incubator, supporting the decision-making process.