Abstract

Purpose: This study conducts a bibliometric analysis and systematic review of literature in the Scopus database (up to May 2025) on the relationship between technological incubation, value chains, and startup scaling. It explores how these processes affect distribution systems, logistics, and trade flows, enabling startups to access markets and accelerate growth. Research design, data and methodology: The study applies a descriptive documentary method, identifying key terms related to innovation, value generation, and business expansion. Bibliometric data exported from Scopus were analyzed using the Bibliometrix R package and VOSviewer. Results: The review identified 152 publications between 1997 and 2025. The United States (30), United Kingdom (24), Italy (12), Australia (11), and Germany (11) contributed 37% of the output. Thematic and co-occurrence analyses revealed seven research clusters, with core terms such as “value creation,” “ecosystem,” “entrepreneur,” and “distribution,” and emerging keywords like “supply chain,” and “business models” indicate a strategic shift toward studying how incubation and logistics integration enhance startup competitiveness and global value chain participation. Conclusions: Findings highlight that successful incubation requires embedding startups in networks that include logistics providers and trade actors. Strategic policy support for tech incubation and distribution capacity—seen in regions like China and Taiwan—can drive globally competitive industrial clusters.