Sustainable innovation: opportunities and challenges for SMEs in South Holland

SMEs face the challenge of innovating sustainably and creating social and environmental value alongside turning a profit. This study focuses on the opportunities and obstacles that entrepreneurs face when working towards sustainability. It also provides in-depth insight into the motivation and driving forces behind entrepreneurs’ commitment to sustainable innovation. The study forms part of a broader research agenda on sustainability. It also ties in with The Hague University of Applied Sciences’ ‘Sustainable Strength of SMEs’ programme, which focuses on strengthening the social position of SMEs.

Target group

Owners and directors of SMEs in the agri-culture and food sector with five to 250 employees in South Holland.

Research

This study employs a qualitative approach. By engaging in dialogue with SME entrepreneurs in South Holland, experiences, challenges, and needs are mapped out in detail. This approach is not only exploratory and in-depth but also reflective and practice-oriented. The insights gained from the interviews form the basis for developing actionable perspectives that support SMEs in sustainable innovation. 

Intended outcomes

This study has a societal impact because it provides practical support to SMEs in South Holland in the areas of sustainable innovation and multi-faceted value creation. In addition, the study contributes to education by developing knowledge clips and masterclasses. This prepares students and (new) entrepreneurs for the challenges in sustainable innovation. The connection between practice, policy, and education provides valuable insights for future developments.

Duration

1 March 2025 to 1 December 2026

Funding

PGO funds 2025

Team

• Sanne Ursem, research group New Finance, [email protected]
• Eveline Kapteijn-Kruijswijk, research group Designing Value Networks
• Albert Kraaij, research group Sustainable Business Models