Startup Sustainability and Innovation Strategies in Asian Emerging Economies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66635/te8dr971Keywords:
Sustainability, Innovation strategies, Startups, Emerging economies, Business model innovationAbstract
Sustainability and innovation have become critical determinants of startup success, particularly in emerging economies characterised by rapid growth, institutional uncertainty, and resource constraints. This study examines the sustainability and innovation strategies adopted by startups operating in Asian emerging economies and analyses their influence on startup performance and long-term viability. Using a quantitative research design, primary data were collected from 70 startups across diverse sectors. Statistical analysis techniques were employed to assess sustainability practices, innovation strategies, and their interrelationships. The findings reveal that startups demonstrate moderate to high adoption of sustainability-oriented practices, with greater emphasis on economic and social sustainability compared to environmental sustainability. Product and business model innovation emerge as the most prominent innovation strategies among startups. The results further indicate a positive and significant relationship between sustainability practices and innovation strategies, suggesting that sustainability acts as an enabling factor for innovation. Additionally, both sustainability practices and innovation strategies contribute significantly to startup performance, with innovation exerting a stronger direct influence. The study contributes to the literature on sustainable entrepreneurship by providing empirical evidence from an emerging economy context. The findings offer valuable implications for startup founders, policymakers, and ecosystem stakeholders seeking to promote sustainability-driven innovation and inclusive entrepreneurial development.
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