Open Access
Article
SciPap-2093
Internalizing Inspirations: How Future Entrepreneurs Absorb Role Models in Sustainable Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
by
Ekaterina Demiankova 1,* 
1 Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Governance, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 3, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
* Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract: This study aims to explore the interaction of entrepreneurs with role models and role models’ narratives (influential individuals, well-known ventures, stories, etc.) in a context of sustainability orientation. While some entrepreneurs are engaged in sustainability-oriented actions, others are not. Keeping in mind that role models can influence entrepreneur’s perceptions, action orientation and values, there is a significant lack of clarity on how role models interact with entrepreneurs in terms of influencing sustainable-oriented business activities. Hence, this paper examines the nature and dynamic of these interactions in the context of entrepreneurial ecosystems by applying systematic inductive qualitative research method and choosing Estonian entrepreneurial ecosystem as a context.
Keywords: Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Role Models, Sustainable Entrepreneurial Role Models, Entrepreneurial Ecosystems, Sustainable Entrepreneurial Ecosystems.
JEL classification: D91 - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making, L26 - Entrepreneurship, O35 - Social Innovation, Q01 - Sustainable Development, Q56 - Environment and Development • Environment and Trade • Sustainability • Environmental Accounts and Accounting • Environmental Equity • Population Growth
Received: 6 June 2024 / Revised: 22 November 2024 / Accepted: 22 November 2024 / Published: 28 November 2024
