An inquiry into the linkages between entrepreneurial perspectives and sustainable value creation in knowledge-intensive entrepreneurship

This paper aims to analyze to what extent particular entrepreneurial perspectives can influence Sustainable Value Creation (SVC) in Knowledge-Intensive Entrepreneurship. It is intended to identify the main entrepreneurial perspectives that facilitate the creation of social, economic, and environmental value, comparing the most appropriate configurations between sustainable and traditional KIE. Data from a cross-sectional study with 285 Brazilian knowledge-intensive entrepreneurs participating in the Brazilian Innovative Research in Small Businesses (PIPE) program were analyzed using a multi-method methodology approach, combining Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), Necessary Conditional Analysis (NCA), and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). Results presented empirical evidence that perceived social support and environmental engagement significantly influence SVC, regarding the knowledge-intensive sustainable entrepreneurs sample. Especially regarding the traditional sample, only empathy seems to be an antecedent of SVC. Findings were also supported by the NCA method, which pointed out the necessary conditions for both samples to create higher levels of sustainable value. Further, the fsQCA technique provided pathways for both samples to improve their strategies on sustainable value. Taking an explicative and quantitatively-applied methodological approach, our empirical estimations have used a multi-method procedure. Our empirical exercises have highlighted which entrepreneurial perspectives influence SVC for both sustainable versus 'traditional' entrepreneurs. Further, we also specify the configurational path alternatives to move in the direction of higher levels of sustainable value.