Scaling Wheel Framework: a holistic approach to startup scalability, governance models, and AI-driven innovation ecosystem competitiveness

Purpose Existing frameworks for startup development often focus on isolated factors-business models, innovation, or operations-without providing a holistic approach to scalability. This study introduces the Scaling Wheel Framework, designed to fill this gap by evaluating startups across five interconnected modules: Entrepreneurial Team, Competitive Environment, Product and Service, Capital and Resources, and Strategy, Timing, and Sustainable Competitive Advantage. Design/methodology/approach We employed a mixed-methods design, combining 30 interviews with founders, investors, and experts, a structured quantitative survey, and case studies. The framework's predictive capability was validated using mathematical modeling and similarity-based machine learning techniques to ensure analytical rigor and reproducibility. Findings Results show that the Scaling Wheel Framework identifies critical strengths and weaknesses overlooked by traditional models. It provides actionable insights for improving scalability readiness and long-term competitiveness. Empirical findings confirm its practical utility for startups, investors, and policymakers, while theoretical contributions integrate governance mechanisms and AI-driven analytics within digital and green innovation ecosystems. Originality/value This research introduces and empirically validates a holistic, multidimensional model for startup scalability. By bridging gaps in prior studies and offering practical guidance, it advances both theory and practice in managing sustainable growth within complex, technology-driven ecosystems.