THE ROLE OF INNOVATION HUBS AND INCUBATORS IN SUSTAINABLE ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN COIMBATORE

Innovation hubs and business incubators play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship, particularly in emerging economies and rapidly industrializing cities like Coimbatore, India. As centers for technological advancement, mentorship, funding, and networking, these hubs serve as catalysts for innovative business models that prioritize environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability. This study explores the contribution of Coimbatore-based innovation hubs and incubators to the growth of sustainable startups, highlighting their role in capacity building, green technology integration, and market access. Through a qualitative and case-based approach, the research identifies key success factors, challenges, and policy implications for scaling sustainable ventures in the region. The findings emphasize the strategic importance of nurturing an ecosystem that aligns entrepreneurial innovation with the principles of sustainability to drive long-term regional development. In the face of escalating environmental challenges and shifting economic paradigms, sustainable entrepreneurship has emerged as a crucial driver of inclusive and resilient development. Innovation hubs and business incubators, as structured support systems, are increasingly recognized for their vital role in nurturing such entrepreneurial ventures. This study examines the impact and influence of innovation hubs and incubators on promoting sustainable entrepreneurship in Coimbatore, a dynamic industrial and educational hub in South India. By fostering an ecosystem that combines access to infrastructure, mentoring, funding, skill development, and collaboration opportunities, these institutions are enabling startups to innovate responsibly while addressing local and global sustainability goals.