Search Results (1,778)

The transition towards sustainable urban mobility requires planning approaches that integrate accessibility, social inclusion, environmental quality, and stakeholder preferences, particularly in medium-sized cities, where mobility challenges differ from those of large metropolitan areas. However, comparative evidence on how different stakeholder groups prioritize sustainable mobility strategies in such cities remains limited. This paper addresses this gap by applying a comparative Multi-Actor Multi-Criteria Analysis (MAMCA) to two medium-sized European cities: Cáceres, Spain, and Coimbra, Portugal. The analysis involved five stakeholder groups (citizens, entrepreneurs, public institutions, mobility operators, and academics) and used a common framework comprising five objectives, fifteen sub-objectives, and eight strategic alternatives for each city. The results show that both cities share strong priorities related to accessibility for vulnerable groups, safety, environmental quality, and public space. However, their preferred strategic pathways differ. In Coimbra, the highest support is associated with pedestrian infrastructure, public space improvements, and integrated spatial planning, whereas in Cáceres, the leading priorities are public transport connectivity, territorial integration, and accessibility for vulnerable groups. The study confirms the usefulness of MAMCA as a transferable decision-support framework for incorporating stakeholder preferences into sustainable mobility planning. Full article

The growth of commercial aerospace enterprises (CAEs) has injected new vitality into the entire aerospace system. Nevertheless, there remains a research gap concerning the entrepreneurial behavior of these enterprises, which is primarily driven by commercial demands and technological innovation. Drawing on network embeddedness theory and complex system theory, this study proposes a conceptual framework that links the structural and relational embeddedness of aerospace system subnetworks to entrepreneurial behavior, while examining the mediating roles of perceived organizational resilience and perceived environmental uncertainty. The moderating role of transformational leadership is evaluated using the trait activation theory. A two-phase quantitative design was employed, combining Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). Empirical analysis using a sample of 265 CAEs in China revealed several key findings: (1) the structural position of CAEs within the aerospace system network, along with informational resources formed through relationships, can enhance perceived organizational resilience and reduce perceived environmental uncertainty, thereby promoting entrepreneurial behavior; (2) entrepreneurs’ transformational leadership can effectively enhance the positive relationship between perceived organizational resilience and their entrepreneurial behavior; (3) two distinct configurations lead to high entrepreneurial behavior among CAEs. The study concludes with corresponding theoretical and practical implications. Full article

In today’s world, renewable energy sources (RESs) are crucial. Their role is growing year by year, for commercial enterprises, public institutions, and individuals alike. The aim of this study was to examine the competitiveness of solid biomass compared to other renewable energy sources in the opinion of entrepreneurs participating in the acquisition and processing of biomass. We did the research in 2024–2025. The number of companies participating in the research and involved in the production and sale of solid biomass was 37. The largest number of companies focus on two key stages of the biomass value chain: the acquisition and processing of biological raw materials. The most frequently indicated strategy is concluding long-term contracts with suppliers, which was chosen by 13 respondents. In total, 25 companies (representing approximately 68%) declared active investment in pro-ecological solutions and 12 companies (approximately 32%) indicated no such activities. The most noticeable factor influencing the sector was the development of regulations and certification at the European Union (EU) level, including the Renewable Energy Directives (RED II and RED III) and ESG requirements, as indicated by 10 respondents. The largest number of respondents (13 responses) indicated a moderate increase in the share of solid biomass. The most frequently cited barrier was high transportation and logistics costs, highlighted by as many as 13 companies. The increasing environmental awareness of customers, especially institutional ones, is fostering an increase in demand for certified biomass. The vast majority of companies confirmed that transportation costs pose a significant challenge, highlighting the importance of logistics in the biomass value chain. Maintaining and strengthening its market position requires overcoming the identified barriers and systemic political and economic support. Full article

Economic challenges are a latent reality in emerging economies such as Peru, and the growth capacity of entrepreneurs depends largely on certain factors, such as education and financial inclusion. To delve deeper into these factors, this study aims to analyze the association between micro-business performance, education, and financial inclusion, as well as to evaluate the mediating role of financial inclusion in the association between financial education and micro-business performance. The study was of an explanatory design. The research focused on owners, business owners, general managers, and other administrators of micro-businesses who could provide information on the performance of the companies. The results showed a statistically significant positive association between micro-business performance, education, and financial inclusion. It was also proven that financial inclusion is positively associated with micro-business performance, and it was also proven that financial inclusion has a mediating role in the association between financial education and micro-business performance. While these relationships are meaningful, the moderate explanatory power of the model (R² = 0.370–0.488) suggests that financial education and financial inclusion are important but partial contributors to business outcomes in this context. In conclusion, entrepreneurs with stronger financial knowledge appear to be better positioned to navigate business challenges and leverage financial systems, which may contribute to improved micro-business performance indicators. Full article

This study examines the impact of a National Institute of Health (NIH)-funded STEM project on high school students’ STEM self-efficacy and perceptions of future STEM careers across two academic years in Western New York. The intervention engaged students in authentic scientific practices, including environmental sampling, microbial DNA analysis, and presenting research posters at a Capstone event. Pre- and post-surveys were administered to intervention and control groups, measuring STEM self-efficacy and perceived future in STEM. Data from 313 students were analyzed using explanatory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM) with multiple imputation. EFA results supported a one-factor structure, which was confirmed by CFA results showing a good model fit for both constructs. SEM findings indicated that program participation significantly improved STEM self-efficacy, while effects on perceived future in STEM were nonsignificant, though potentially moderated by cohort. No race-based interaction effects emerged, suggesting consistent program benefits. The findings imply that schools should incorporate authentic STEM learning experiences to strengthen students’ confidence and broaden equitable engagement in STEM. Limitations include the bias on self-report measures. Future longitudinal and mixed-methods research is needed to examine how early gains in self-efficacy translate into sustained STEM pathways. Full article

Although Non-Wood Forest Products can offer interesting economic opportunities for rural communities, little is known about their commercial harvesters. Our work aims to shed light on the labour profiles, their accessibility to new entrants, and attractiveness for future green jobs. Through in-depth interviews, we explored the five-capitals profile of commercial resin, cork, mastic foliage, chestnut, pine nut, and wild mushroom harvesters in Spain. We found either freelance harvesters or entrepreneurs with a small gang. Our data show a typical male collector, who started the activity through his social networks (Social Capital), and whose origin depends on the product and Spanish region. Some commercial female harvesters were found in mushroom, chestnut and resin harvesting. Social constructs around the masculinization of these activities may explain their limited attractiveness for women. The ratio of non-Spanish commercial harvesters correlates with the weight of migrants in the analysed regions. Only a subgroup of resin harvesters devotes most of their year to this single activity. The rest complement NWFP income with a main forestry (cork and pinenut) or non-forestry occupation (mushroom, chestnut and mastic). For the latter products, access to Natural Capital was found to be crucial for job progress, as non-landowners require administrative and/or negotiation capacities to secure harvesting permits. Human Capital differs across NWFPs, from simpler skills such as recognising marketable produce and handling easy tools (mushroom, chestnuts, pine nut ground gathering and mastic), to complex abilities needed to balance efficiency with minimising tree damage (in resin tapping, pinenut shaking, and cork extraction). Such specialised tools and machinery (Built Capital) typically act as a barrier to entry and advancement. These profiles are expected to help decision-makers to design instruments promoting and regulating commercial harvesting, and tackle their risks: local landowners in allocating harvesting rights to external collectors; regional policymakers as competent authorities in forest legislation; and state-level administration concerning cultural, fiscal and labour-permit aspects. Full article

Psychological capital (PsyCap), encompassing hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism, has established itself as a key psychological resource for individuals. However, research in this field remains fragmented, which limits a comprehensive understanding of its role in the psychological mechanisms underlying entrepreneurial behavior, particularly in terms of motivation, coping with stress, and resilience in the face of uncertainty. This study aims to examine and organize the intellectual landscape of PsyCap. A scoping review of 215 articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science over nearly two decades was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR, using a co-thematic analysis based on text mining techniques. The results reveal a three-phase evolution of the field (emergence, growth, and maturity), built around individual functioning, entrepreneurial cognitions and attitudes, and psychosocial resources. The analysis also highlights unequal access to and use of PsyCap across contexts, as well as differences related to the specific characteristics of the populations studied, shedding light on underexplored groups such as women, refugees, rural and social entrepreneurs, migrants, and entrepreneurs with disabilities. These findings contribute to advancing knowledge in entrepreneurial psychology and offer a detailed analysis of future research avenues, including emerging research questions, methodological approaches, and theoretical interdisciplinary perspectives. Full article

This study evaluated the outcomes associated with the Avanzar Rural Project among young entrepreneurs from five regions of Peru. The research was conducted in 13 provinces across Amazonas, Áncash, Cajamarca, Lima, and San Martín, involving 146 participants from 60 producer organizations. Data were collected between September and October 2025 through a validated survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). The study follows an ex post design without a baseline or control group; therefore, the results reflect participants’ reported changes and statistical associations rather than causal effects. The findings indicate widespread reported improvements in productive performance, including income, asset acquisition, and production efficiency, alongside strengthened adaptive capacities and technical skills. Regression results show that access to productive assets and training in production technologies are key factors associated with income growth and increased sales. In contrast, climate adaptation capacities and sustainable management training are linked to improved resilience. In addition, limited access to digital training and infrastructure constrains market engagement. The MCA reveals significant territorial differences in economic performance, institutional development, environmental management, and market integration. In conclusion, the results suggest the importance of integrated and territorially differentiated support strategies that combine productive investment, capacity building, and market-oriented interventions to strengthen youth-led agricultural systems. Full article

Against the backdrop of the rapid expansion of rural tourism, an increasing number of migrant tourism entrepreneurs (MTEs) are moving from urban to rural areas. The integration of MTEs is crucial for both business sustainability and rural development. Using Hongcun village as a case study, this study adopts qualitative methods, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews, to explore the dynamic process of MTEs’ place integration from a social capital perspective. The findings suggest that MTEs’ place integration is manifested through four dimensions, namely economic embeddedness, social interaction, cultural acceptance, and emotional integration. Moreover, place integration and social capital form a mutually reinforcing cycle: integration practices generate localized social capital, which in turn facilitates deeper integration. The study also identifies that selective interaction leads to network stratification, highlighting the potential “dark side” of social capital. These findings suggest that effective integration depends not only on the accumulation of social capital but also on maintaining a dynamic balance among different types of social relationships. Full article

The agrifood sector faces well-documented barriers to climate-smart agriculture (CSA) adoption, reflecting systematic difficulty identifying where digital tools address specific stakeholder needs rather than a technology shortage. This paper presents a prescriptive framework for mapping digital innovation opportunities in complex, multi-stakeholder agrifood systems. Grounded in Jobs-to-be-Done (JTBD) theory and structured as a two-dimensional matrix of meta-jobs and value chain segments, the framework was developed through a design science research (DSR) paradigm evaluated on utility, coherence, and actionability. Construction involved a purposive synthesis of three literature streams and iterative refinement through 136 stakeholder engagements within a six-month university-affiliated startup studio cycle. Applied to climate-smart agriculture, the framework produces 54 strategic opportunity areas across nine meta-jobs and six value chain segments. A cross-cutting pattern analysis identifies three structural constraints: agricultural data fragmentation and absence of interoperability standards; inadequate measurement, reporting, and verification infrastructure; and misalignment between financing mechanisms and climate-smart time horizons. The framework equips entrepreneurs and investors with a segment-differentiated opportunity map, supports agribusiness portfolio analysis, and directs policymakers toward three priority areas where coordinated systemic action generates value across the opportunity landscape. Full article

Entrepreneurs represent a key piece in the generation of jobs and contribution to the economy through the performance of their businesses. Taking into account that literacy and financial inclusion constitute a business facilitator for the development of businesses, this study was based on analyzing the three variables, aiming to identify whether inclusion and financial literacy influence business performance. Through a non-experimental, quantitative study based on structural equations, a sample of 469 entrepreneurs from Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia was studied. The hypotheses were supported by observing the positive effect of one component of financial literacy (Cash Forecasting) and three components of financial inclusion (Access, Barriers, and Use) on Business Performance. However, the proposed model shows that the direct effect of two components (Bookkeeping and Financial Education) of financial literacy is not statistically significant. Therefore, these factors are vital tools that can help Latin American entrepreneurs make informed financial decisions, manage resources effectively, and build solid and sustainable businesses. Full article

With a modest estimate of 11 million workers and high greenhouse gas emissions, the Indian brick sector is a relevant study for understanding how low-carbon energy transition impacts justice for the society, environment, and livelihoods. This empirical article provides an analysis of the ongoing policy-driven energy efficiency transition and justice trade-offs and benefits in the brick production sector in the state of Bihar. The transition is explored in a larger framework of power relations and vulnerability to determine whether the policies enable or challenge transformative justice for the labour force, nature and future generations. Present policies focus on regulations and financial incentives relevant for entrepreneurs with pre-existing skills, network and financial resources. Further, present policy narratives lack attention to mechanisms that reproduce the socio-economic inequality of the brick labour force, and implications for balancing different livelihood and environmental objectives. We conclude that the findings emphasise the need for integrating a wider variety of social dimensions and relevant support schemes to overcome inequality barriers and safeguard the environment for future generations. Full article

Miang, a traditional fermented tea produced from Camellia sinensis var. assamica, is of notable cultural and socio-economic relevance in Northern Thailand. Traditionally, the non-filamentous fungi-based process (NFP) in western Lanna uses only young tea leaves, resulting in substantial amounts of mature leaves being discarded as agricultural waste. This study aimed to utilize the mature tea leaves by adapting the filamentous fungi growth-based process (FFP) of eastern Lanna using selected tannin-tolerant microorganisms, including Aspergillus niger MLF3, Cyberlindera rhodanensis P3, and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus A14-6. Study on fermentation dynamics and bioactive compound formation based on a 2-step fermentation process: 3-day solid-state fermentation with A. niger MLF3, followed by 7-day submerged fermentation by co-culture of C. rhodaninsis P3, and L. pentosus A14-6 in 500 mL sterile distilled water at 30 °C. Increased activities of polysaccharide-degrading enzymes and organic acids were clearly observed during solid-state fermentation, while the significant changes in polyphenol, antioxidant, and reducing sugar content in cell-free supernatant (CFS) were found after submerged fermentation. The obtained CFS shows inhibitory effects of 90 ± 2.5% and 95 ± 1.8% on α-glucosidase and α-amylase, respectively. Analysis of CFS by E-tongue and E-nose clearly indicated the influence of microbial mixture on the taste and aroma of the fermented products. These results demonstrate not only a high-yielding strategy for the effective biotransformation of mature tea leaves into functional drink products but also significant implications for reducing agricultural waste. Full article

Digital Payment Tools (DPTs) are increasingly promoted as catalysts for financial inclusion, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies such as Bangladesh. However, prior research predominantly treats DPT adoption as a static decision, offering limited insights into how pre-adoption perceptions evolve into post-adoption satisfaction and continued use, particularly from a sustainable development perspective. Addressing this gap, this study aims to examine the determinants of SME entrepreneurs’ satisfaction (SAT) and continued intention to use (CIU) DPTs by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Post-Adoption Model (PAM), with SAT and sustainability attitude (SUS) positioned as a mediating mechanism linking digital payment usage to long-term sustainable behavior. Data were collected from 219 SME entrepreneurs in Bangladesh and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling. Results reveal that Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) directly impacts Perceived Usefulness (PU) and SAT but does not impact CIU. Although PU does not influence CIU, it has a significant impact on SAT, which in turn influences CIU. Additionally, SAT fully mediates the relationship between PEOU and PU with CIU. Moreover, PEOU and PU have a significant impact on SAT through the partial mediation of SUS, while SUS fully mediates the relationship between PU and CIU. By bridging pre-adoption and post-adoption perspectives and embedding sustainability within the digital payment adoption framework, this study advances understanding of how DPTs contribute to sustainable SME development in emerging economies. The insights offer practical implications for Fintech developers and policymakers aiming to enhance long-term adoption and impact of DPTs in emerging economies. Full article

Entrepreneurship is recognised globally as the vehicle for economic development and poverty eradication, yet in developing economies, it is not receiving the support it deserves. Based on the institutional framework, this study explores its role in fostering the development of an entrepreneurial mindset in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. Being grounded in the interpretivist research philosophy and following an inductive qualitative research design, the study adopted a case study strategy. Data were collected through in- depth interviews with 12 participants, purposively selected from industry leaders and entrepreneurs. Thematic analysis was used to inductively generate contextual insights from the interaction between the regulatory, socio-economic, and cultural pillars of the institutional framework and individual capabilities. The findings show that entrepreneurship development in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe, is influenced to a greater extent by the institutional framework, which is characterised by economic volatility, infrastructure gaps, and evolving regulatory demands. The formal institutional framework was noted to confer legitimacy while, at the same time, imposing obligations on institutions; informal institutional frameworks rooted in communal values, social capital, and professional bodies helped fill gaps in the formal framework. The study also demonstrates that entrepreneurial mindset development is an integrated output of continuous learning, strategic networking, and individual capability. In reinforcing the normative dimensions of institutional theory, it was noted that entrepreneurs do not only have profit-maximisation goals but also long-term sustainability and survival targets. The study contributes to scarce empirical research on the nexus between institutional framework and entrepreneurship development in emerging economies. The findings reinforce the need for an integrated approach that streamlines the regulatory process, strengthens infrastructure, supports capacity building, and recognises the role of the informal institutional network in enhancing entrepreneurship development. Even though the qualitative, cross-sectional design limits the generalizability of the study’s findings, the study offers insights into fostering entrepreneurship development in emerging markets. Full article