Sustainable corporate entrepreneurship as a catalyst for sustainability – a systematic literature review

Sustainability has emerged as a critical priority for both business strategy and academic research, driving a shift beyond traditional responsibility frameworks toward embedding sustainability within entrepreneurial paradigms. While start-ups and social entrepreneurs have effectively integrated sustainability into their business models, large corporation face significant challanges in balancing financial goals with the growing demand for sustainability. This study considers the potential of corporate entrepreneurship to foster sustainability within established companies. Sustainable corporate entrepreneurship (SCE) allows companies to leverage innovation for sustainability as a value-creating opportunity rather than a restrictive constraint. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature – the lack of a comprehensive framework for SCE – through a meticulous, systematic literature review of 95 recent publications. Our proposed SCE framework identifies three key dimensions: focus, approach and evaluation. We provide insights to deepen understanding and guide future research in this evolving field. Specifically, we introduce a model that conceptualizes how SCE can be developed as dynamic capability for generating value through sustainability-focused innovation. This model speficies capabilities on an individual and organizational level, as well as contextual enablers and hurdles.