Deep Tech Ecosystems as Drivers of Sustainable Development: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Perspectives from Europe and Poland

Dominik Kowal () and Wojciech Przewoźnik
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Dominik Kowal: Department of Strategic Management and Economics, Faculty of Management, AGH University of Krakow, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
Wojciech Przewoźnik: Department of Strategic Management and Economics, Faculty of Management, AGH University of Krakow, 30-059 Kraków, Poland

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-36

Abstract: Deep tech is a broad concept encompassing scientifically and technologically advanced innovations, enterprises, and projects based on profound scientific and engineering knowledge. It addresses complex technological challenges while considering environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Ambitious R&D initiatives act as catalysts for innovative solutions and for transforming companies and sectors toward sustainable development. The literature review highlights the multifaceted nature of deep tech, particularly from diverse stakeholder perspectives—both those directly and indirectly engaged in this field. Fully utilizing deep tech’s potential requires strong scientific, infrastructural, regulatory, and financial foundations. Europe, including dynamically developing EU countries such as Poland, increasingly recognizes the need to build an ecosystem that supports the development and commercialization of frontier technologies grounded in scientific progress. This article clarifies key deep tech concepts and outlines current conditions for technological innovation in Europe. Drawing on desk research, participatory observation, and a survey, it presents an initial analysis of Poland’s deep tech ecosystem. The exploratory pilot study serves as a basis for more focused future research on key sectoral challenges. The findings offer a preliminary assessment of the potential and barriers related to science-based innovation and provide a clearer picture of Poland’s emerging deep tech landscape. This enables more accurate interpretation of results and insights into the sector’s future development. For Europe and the EU, enhancing global competitiveness in deep tech will require coordinated actions and stronger connections among local ecosystems at different stages of maturity, such as those in Poland.

Keywords: deep tech; entrepreneurial ecosystem; innovation management; innovation policy; start-up; sustainable development; technological change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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