Drawing on organizational imprinting theory, this study adopts a longitudinal single-case research design and examines Wanhua Chemical to explore the process and underlying mechanisms through which entrepreneurial innovation imprints evolve into organizational innovation imprints. The results show that the innovative imprints of entrepreneurs, such as results orientation, exploratory spirit, and long-termism, were translated through institutional, strategic and cultural mechanisms, forming three imprint transformation paths: agile execution, strategic breakthrough, and systemic support, continuously improving the innovation performance of the organization; and entrepreneurial innovation imprints can be institutionalized at the organizational level and exert a sustained influence on firms’ innovation processes.