Abstract
This study investigates the adoption of generative artificial intelligence in accelerator-based startups to determine which types of startups most use the technology. Internal and external factors likely to influence high usage are examined, including creativity, proactivity, industry dynamism, and absorptive capacity. Quantitative survey data were collected from 31 Valencia-based startups participating in a leading Spanish accelerator. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis was used to determine the influence of key attributes on generative artificial intelligence usage levels. The findings reveal four pathways influencing high usage. This work contributes to the emerging literature on startups’ usage of generative artificial intelligence, offering insights into the roles of internal abilities and external conditions.