Fostering  circular economy through open innovation: Insights from multiple case study

Perotti  F.A.; Bargoni A.; De Bernardi P.; Rozsa Z. (2025).  Business  Ethics, the Environment & Responsibility, 34(2),, 105154. DOI: 10.1111/beer.12657

Abstract

This study represents an empirical, comprehensive investigation of two different inter-organisational collaborative approaches, offering a novel perspective on collaborative circular business models in the modern economy. In this vein, we explore how open innovation strategies foster the implementation of circular economy practices within a circular supply chain and a circular ecosystem. In addition, we identify and characterise stakeholders' roles in facilitating the translation of circular principles into a viable business. An inductive theorising approach was employed, leveraging an explorative multiple case study methodology. Data were collected from 13 organisations involved in two collaborative networks, designed to establish upcycling practices to recover waste from the food and beverage industry. A critical realist philosophical positioning underpinned researchers' data collection and analysis. As a result, we outline the nature of two different collaborative approaches to pursue a regenerative production system through open innovation strategies: a circular supply chain and a circular ecosystem architecture. The characterisation of the coordinator and orchestrator of collaborative circular business models is also highlighted in our findings. In sum, this study contributes to the literature on circular economy by unveiling the role of open innovation in fostering circular business development. From a practical standpoint, it offers insights for managers of sustainability-oriented companies willing to implement upcycling practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizing  ecosystems for the greater good: An integrative review

By Raizada A.; Sinha S. (2025).  Journal of  Cleaner Production, 145148. DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2025.145148

Abstract

To understand how ecosystems can be organized to address grand challenges, we conduct a review of 178 research documents. We outline differences in organizational elements among different ecosystem types incorporating sustainability objectives, and develop a typology, positioning them according to their approach to address grand challenges. We propose a characterization of sustainable ecosystems by delineating salient aspects of orchestration, participation, and design for shared value creation. Further, we propose a multidimensional system of goals that determines the direction and scope of ecosystem activities. Accordingly, we develop a conceptual process framework for sustainable ecosystem activities revolving around multidirectional and regenerative value flows through which solutions are developed for grand challenges. Through the study, we argue for the unique positioning of ecosystems to balance purpose and profit in addressing grand challenges. By triggering the discussion beyond business-centrism, we advance toward a holistic conceptualization of ecosystems, involving the participation of diverse organizational and non-organizational actors for economic and non-economic objectives. Thereby, we present critical implications for ecosystem organization, participation, and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entrepreneurship  in the context of permanent crisis: the role of community support

By Audretsch D.B.; Kariv D. (2025). Review of  Managerial Science, 1-34. DOI: 10.1007/s11846-025-00845-6

Abstract

In an era of persistent crises, the determinants of technological performance are undergoing a radical transformation. Existing research primarily addresses technological performance under stable conditions, offering insights that fall short during continual crises. To enhance technological performance amid uncertainty, our study of 489 Israeli tech-founders reveals that psychological capital and a strong sense of community belonging are pivotal. These entrepreneurial factors catalyze ecosystem support and opportunities, converting conventional drivers into potent engines of growth. Through mixed methods, advanced Natural Language Processing, and robust statistical analysis, we reveal how entrepreneurial strengths optimize resource utilization. Through interviews, we extract topics and sentiments associated with these factors during crises, showing that a sense of belonging acts as a positive anchor. Questionnaire results further reveal the mediating effects of these internal factors. Our methodology bridges conceptual and empirical gaps, offering new insights to decode technological success in uncertain times. The implications extend beyond theory, providing actionable strategies for tech leaders, policymakers, and innovation ecosystems facing ongoing instability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchestration  in Mature Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Towards a Circular Economy: A Dynamic  Capabilities Approach

By Kanda W.; Klofsten M.; Bienkowska D.; Audretsch D.;  Geissdoerfer M.. (2025). Business Strategy and the Environment. DOI: 10.1002/bse.4229

Abstract

The novelty of this article lies in its focus on how mature ecosystems align their members around a new value proposition, specifically supporting circular economy entrepreneurship. We use dynamic capabilities theory to analyse the coordination and collaboration challenges in entrepreneurial ecosystems that seek to support entrepreneurship based on circular economy strategies. Drawing on interviews with 34 ecosystem actors and 70 circular new ventures, as well as three focus group discussions, we identify key challenges that hinder the ecosystem's alignment: (i) a lack of shared understanding of the circular economy concept, (ii) diverse business strategies for circular value creation, (iii) insufficient support tools for circular new ventures and (iv) limited interactions between specialists and generalists. Overcoming these challenges requires ecosystem orchestrators with a holistic perspective, strong legitimacy and the ability to mobilize ecosystem-level resources. These orchestrators must foster a shared vision (sensing), promote investment in circular expertise (seizing) and adapt the ecosystem to the evolving needs of circular new ventures (reconfiguring). Using the circular economy context, we contribute to ecosystem theory by highlighting the importance of materiality, the emergence of geographically unbound entrepreneurial ecosystems and the role of non-market exchanges. For practitioners, this article offers actionable insights for reconfiguring mature entrepreneurial ecosystems for new value propositions such as providing support for circular economy entrepreneurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of  cluster ecosystems and intellectual capital in achieving high-growth  entrepreneurship: evidence from Germany

By Temouri Y.; Luong H.-P.; Pereira V.; Rammal H.  (2025). Journal of Intellectual Capital, 26(1), 1-24. DOI: 10.1108/JIC-01-2024-0017

Abstract

Purpose: This paper examines the role played by business cluster ecosystems and intellectual capital (IC) in achieving high-growth firm (HGF) status. Design/methodology/approach: We draw our insights from the knowledge-based perspective and economic geography as a theoretical lens, which combined offer a more unifying understanding of how business cluster ecosystems and IC foster high growth entrepreneurship. Findings: Drawing on a sample of 11,360 German incorporated firms across 80 clusters, we find that cluster ecosystems play a significant role in supporting firms to become HGFs. More specifically, being located in business clusters increases the likelihood of becoming HGFs by 2.2% to 4.49%. We also find that clusters with more productive firms in the ecosystems provide favorable conditions for member firms to achieve HGF status, while the impact of other cluster-specific conditions (high-tech cluster membership and multinational enterprise share in clusters) is less clear. Additional insights suggest that firm IC (investments in intangible assets) enables firms to achieve high growth status. Research limitations/implications: The findings of this paper hold theoretical and managerial relevance and shed more light on the impact of cluster-specific factors in the ecosystems and firm IC in achieving high growth entrepreneurship. Originality/value: This paper is among the first of its kind to bring together three distinct literatures (HGFs, business clusters and IC) and utilize insights from each to derive a conceptual framework that links them in explaining high-growth entrepreneurship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the  uncharted influence of family social capital in entrepreneurial ecosystems

By Appleton S.W.; Pavlou C. (2025). Journal of Family Business  Management, 15(1), 158-184. DOI: 10.1108/JFBM-02-2024-0037

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to develop theory, thereby attending to the existing knowledge gap regarding the impact of family firms on entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs). Reducing such a gap is both timely and relevant given the ubiquity of family firms across the globe and the lack of theoretical development at the intersection of EE and family firm literatures. By employing social capital theory in a propositional theorizing approach, this article presents unique propositions that enrich current understanding of the EE phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach: Our method adopts a three-step propositional theorizing approach. The first step outlines our conceptualization, drawing on social capital theory and identifying multiple levels of analysis pertaining to EEs and family firms. The second step precisely identifies the constructs used for the theorization process, drawing upon relevant literature. The third step involves proposition building, which produces our findings. Findings: As a result of our propositional theorizing method, we developed 10 theoretical propositions to explain interactions between family members, nonfamily entrepreneurs, family firms and new ventures in the EE, thereby focusing on the social elements of the EE and reducing its conceptual complexity while extending the explanatory power of family social capital in the EE. Research limitations/implications: Despite being increasingly relevant in research, policy and practice discourse, EEs remain under theorized. By theorizing in this context, we provide explanations of the mechanisms to explain social interactions between family members, nonfamily entrepreneurs, family firms and new ventures and how such interactions are likely to provide better access to the untapped resources in the EE. Furthermore, our theorization also identifies underexplored research areas paving the way for future scholars. Practical implications: This article is relevant to practitioners and policymakers interested in creating balanced, inclusive and effective EE policies and interventions. Our theorization generates insights that complement a bottom-up approach where the state assumes a facilitating role for actors such as family firms to positively impact their EE. This research is both timely and necessary because, if unaddressed, it will lead to ineffective and potentially exclusionary policies and EE interventions. Originality/value: We contribute to the literature by synthesizing the two domains and thereby advancing knowledge at the intersection of EE and family firm literatures. We strengthen the link between two burgeoning research areas through a propositional theorizing mode of theory development. Under the assumptions of a grand theory, social capital theory, we highlight the benefits that derive from social interactions in the EE between family firms and other EE actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bordeaux and  Napa Valley clusters – growing, sustaining, declining or renewing? A cluster  life cycle perspective

By Ostapenko S.; Africano A.P.; Meneses R..  (2025). International Journal of Wine Business Research. DOI: 10.1108/IJWBR-12-2023-0083

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the dynamic nature of local economies through the lens of cluster life cycle (CLC) theory. The authors offer an original perspective on the comparison of the mature Old World wine industry and the growing New World one, viewed through the lens of the CLC aiming to understand the specific stage of cluster development for these regions. The authors aim to define the CLC dynamics of two world-renowned wine clusters, symbolizing these old and new world wine industries: Napa and Bordeaux. Design/methodology/approach: The research adopts a case study approach, specifically analyzing the Bordeaux and Napa Valley wine clusters, using a CLC identification framework. This study integrates recent conceptual advances from evolutionary and institutional economic geography, incorporating a dynamic “path” approach to cluster development stages. Findings: In examining Bordeaux, despite indications of maturity in the wine industry, the cluster displays signs of transformation, marked by reorganization, diversification and adaptation to new conditions, such as enotourism and technological clusters. In contrast, Napa Valley, while well established, exhibits characteristics of sustainment with stabilized business dynamics. Research limitations/implications: This study acknowledges its exploratory nature and the need for future empirical studies on various clusters to fully validate and refine the CLC identification framework. Practical implications: The proposed CLC identification framework serves as a valuable tool for policymakers and companies by facilitating precise identification of cluster development stages. This tool enables stakeholders to better understand and address the specific needs and characteristics of clusters at different stages, enhancing the effectiveness of targeted interventions and support measures. Originality/value: This research advances CLC theory by introducing the development trajectories of the Napa and Bordeaux clusters, analyzed independently of their dominant industries, using the CLC path identification model. This approach provides a fresh perspective on cluster evolution, enriching the theoretical framework with insights that transcend traditional industry-specific analysis. By enhancing the precision and relevance of cluster stage identification, this research offers a valuable guide for policymakers and cluster stakeholders, enabling them to better understand the dynamics of cluster development and intervene effectively at critical stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to address  the corporate social responsibility decoupling? A novel perspective from  corporate responsible competitiveness

Xiang G.; He Z.; Junaid D.; Rayman-Bacchus L. (2025). Technology  Analysis and Strategic Management.. DOI: 10.1080/09537325.2025.2467929

Abstract

Many commercial enterprises fall into corporate social responsibility (CSR) decoupling, we consider that it can be mitigated by corporate responsible competitiveness (CRC), which is an attempt to directly embed social values into main products. Taking social enterprises as the sample, we have identified five antecedents of CRC using grounded theory, and explored the joint effect of these five factors to form CRC based on fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Accordingly, we construct a strategic choice matrix for enterprises, in which we indicate three types of CRC and their conditions to discuss how CRC addresses CSR decoupling. Ultimately, this research offers scholars a new opportunity to solve CSR decoupling, and extend our understanding of the relationship between social value and a firm’s main products. Meanwhile, our configurations and strategic choice matrix provide new opportunities and paths for CSR strategies implementation, providing a reference for the research of CSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skills for a  Circular Economy Transformation—A Regional Case Study From Sweden

By Martin H. (2025). International Journal of  Training and Development. DOI: 10.1111/ijtd.12360

Abstract

Among the contributions on skills in economic geography and related disciplines, the skills required in a regional context for putting circular economy into practice remain largely unaddressed. Labour markets have however a strong regional dimension, and industry development and transformation is often heavily reliant on already existing skills in a region. The objective of this paper is to make explicit the skills required by employers for implementing circularity in regional manufacturing industries. Furthermore, it addresses where these skills are obtained from, and whether there is a connection to already existing industrial specialisations. The theoretical framework of the paper draws on contributions from the economic geography of labour markets as well as the circular economy. The paper is based on in-depth interviews with companies and supporting actors engaged in circular economy development in the vehicles/automotive and the textile industries in the West Gothland region in Sweden. The findings reveal that circular economy imposes new skill demands on manufacturing industries, many of which are applicable across various industrial contexts. The industries face an increased need for material-specific and technological skills to ensure an improved durability and separability of materials and components. At the same time, the outcomes emphasise the importance of a variety of non-technological skills and point towards so far less addressed opportunities for learning and skill transfer between different industry contexts. Furthermore, the circular economy puts focus on a variety of low-skill jobs that have largely been unconsidered in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of  institutions in supporting SME financing through the trade credit channel: an  empirical analysis of Italian provinces

By Coricelli F.; Frigerio M.; Vozzella P. (2025). Small  Business Economics. DOI: 10.1007/s11187-025-01013-6

Abstract

Trade credit is a relevant channel through which institutional development affects the real economy. When contract enforcement is weak and trust is low, firms engage in opportunistic behavior that is likely to disproportionally penalize small firms, characterized by weak bargaining power with respect to their larger customers or suppliers. This mechanism is particularly relevant during periods of sharp tightening of credit conditions from banks. Exploiting regional variation in Italy, the paper finds that institutional development mitigated the impact of the financial crisis, particularly for smaller firms, by limiting the adverse effects of the trade credit channel on their liquidity conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]