An Assessment of Regional Sustainability via the Maturity Level of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

Abstract

Despite the prominence of sustainable development approaches in the academic literature, together with the significance attributed to the economy and society, the concept is not sufficiently theorized, especially in terms of methodological issues. The presented study makes a contribution to the academic literature by providing a synthesis on territorial sustainable development research and related concepts of innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems (EE). We propose a methodological framework for the assessment of regional sustainability, replicating and expanding the approach of D. Isenberg, and draw inference to the impact of institutional environments on the maturity level of EEs. We present our assumptions in the example of two entrepreneurial ecosystems in Russia and Poland (the Penza region and the Małopolska region) with relevant interpretations, which enable us to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to progress in sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem development. The results of this analysis provides information to help academics, policymakers, government, and business owners with a more in-depth understanding of the practical mechanisms that support absorption of the EE model to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.

The role of industrial parks in ensuring sustainable development of the region

“…The research is based on the study of various approaches to the concept of "sustainable regional development". Most of the authors pay special attention to the ecological and economic aspects in determining the sustainable development of the region [1][2][3][4][5].…”

Challenges and Opportunities for Technology Transfer Networks in the Context of Open Innovation: Russian Experience

“…In this regard, it seems expedient to intensify activities in integrating individual technology transfer centers into a unified multi-level network. A model for an innovation ecosystem based on the principles of circular ecosystem can be used as a basic network model for technology transfer [44,45].…”

“…Universities should contribute to the creation of collaborative interdisciplinary innovation with other stakeholders. Knowledge exchange and collaboration with external partners is becoming as important as the sale and purchase of intellectual property objects [45].…”

Cross-Sectoral Digital Platform as a Tool for Innovation Ecosystem Development

“…Ecosystems are difficult to control, although they can be directed and influenced. In fact, any controlling influence should be considered as "intervention", which, at first glance, contradicts the fundamental principles of ecosystems [5], with the principle of self-organization being one. In addition, a very important aspect that deserves attention is the openness and transparency of innovation ecosystem platforms for all participants (ease of connection, transparency in the ranking of goods and services, etc.).…”