Which term refers to a type of entrepreneur that operates within an existing company as an innovator?

The term that refers to an entrepreneur who operates within an existing company as an innovator is "intrapreneur." Intrapreneurs are individuals who take on entrepreneurial roles within a larger organization, using their creativity and initiative to develop new products, services, or processes that can benefit the company. They have the freedom to act like entrepreneurs while still having the resources and support of the institution behind them, allowing them to innovate without taking on the same level of personal financial risk that independent entrepreneurs face.

This concept is particularly important in today's business environment, where companies seek to foster a culture of innovation and agility by allowing their employees to act as intrapreneurs. These individuals can drive internal change and help the company adapt to market trends or consumer needs. This is in contrast to other entrepreneurial terms that don't capture this unique position within a corporate structure. For instance, a serial entrepreneur is someone who starts multiple businesses over time, whereas an independent entrepreneur operates their own company outside the confines of a larger organization. An empire builder focuses on expanding their company's size and influence, often through traditional ownership and control, rather than innovative practices within an existing system.