Entrepreneurs’ Social Capital in Overcoming Business Challenges: Case Studies of Seven Greentech, Climate Tech and Agritech Startups

Michaela Carni, Tamar Gur () and Yossi Maaravi ()
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Michaela Carni: The Adelson School of Entrepreneurship, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
Tamar Gur: The Adelson School of Entrepreneurship, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
Yossi Maaravi: The Adelson School of Entrepreneurship, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 19, 1-26

Abstract: Environmental entrepreneurship has a vital role in addressing our planet’s critical environmental state by implementing innovative solutions to combat escalating environmental threats. These ventures, however, face numerous challenges, including securing initial funding, navigating technical difficulties, and gaining market acceptance, which are magnified by the pioneering nature of green innovations. Social capital is a key facilitator, enabling entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles through smart network management, trust, and strategic partnerships. This study investigates the role of social capital in mitigating the challenges faced by environmental entrepreneurs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs. Our findings reveal how social capital not only assists in navigating the complexities and challenges ingrained in environmental entrepreneurship but is also an inherent part of environmental venture creation. These insights emphasize the importance of social capital in advancing environmental innovation. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Keywords: environmental entrepreneurship; social capital; sustainable innovation; green ventures; eco-innovation challenges (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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