Institutionalized digital sustainability in aquaculture: end-to-end digitally enabled innovation

Purpose This study aims to explore the role of technological innovation in promoting digital sustainability within the aquaculture sector, which is increasingly becoming a crucial source of protein in the fight against hunger, with a focus on institutionalizing digitally enabled innovation for environmental, economic and social sustainability. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative case study approach, investigating an Indonesian aquaculture tech startup. The tech startup provides end-to-end digital services to empower small-scale fish and shrimp farmers in Indonesia. Data was collected from diverse sources, including interviews, videos, publicly available documents and field observations of fish and shrimp farms, then they were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Findings Digitally enabled innovations are revolutionizing traditional aquaculture practices. These innovations have led to an inclusive sustainability outcomes that optimize feed usage and reduce waste, boost efficiency and profitability and empower small-scale fish farmers. Originality/value The study underscores how digitally enabled innovations can drive the institutionalizing of sustainability in aquaculture. A “Fish Farmers-first” approach cultivated a culture of innovation through strategic partnerships and collaboration, creating a digitally enabled ecosystem that connects various stakeholders in the aquaculture value chain.