Seeking for effectiveness of sustainability entrepreneurial education programs: a multiple case analysis

Abstract

The urgency of environmental challenges necessitates educational programs that equip future entrepreneurs with practical sustainability-specific skills and knowledge. Accordingly, this article compares sustainability entrepreneurial education program cases using action research at the University of California San Diego (startBlue and Innovation-CORPS [I-CORPS]) and Cranfield University (Ideas-to-Innovation and [i2i] Energy Entrepreneurship) specific to pedagogical approaches like experiential learning, transdisciplinary collaboration, community mentors, and practical examples. Findings highlight multiple achievements—underrepresented founder involvement, United Nations Sustainable Development Goal alignment, and early value development signal identification. Practically, such insights can guide educators, policymakers, and program designers in enhancing sustainability entrepreneurial education, fostering innovation, and addressing local and regional sustainability challenges through collaboration and practical applications. Also, there are actionable recommendations to facilitate knowledge, skill, and competency development with entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders, thereby aiding sustainability-focused venture development, growth, and success.