Abstract Based on institutional theory and platform organization view, this paper explores how farmers cooperatives can help informal entrepreneurs transition from informal to formal market. By analyzing the market entry process of five farmer cooperatives, the results showed that the multi-stage and multi-level institutional strategies of rural cooperative organizations can promote the formalization process of informal entrepreneurs (i.e.,
thinking inspiration—capability building—relationship orchestration—market legitimacy). Nevertheless, the formalization process is continuous and fragile, and it will be affected by the business performance, relationship network, inclusive market and empowerment policy.
ZHANG Wenge,MAI Yiyuan,YE Zhuxin. Cooperatives in the Perspective of Platform Organization and the Formalization of Informal Entrepreneurial Farmers[J]. Chinese Journal of Management, 2020, 17(3): 383-.