Growing innovation: business models for sustainable regional development in Skåne, Sweden

Being one of the largest industries, the agricultural sector is central to achieving EU and UN sustainability goals. However, the role of sustainable business model innovation (SBMI) in low-tech sectors, such as agriculture, remains empirically underexplored, as existing research has largely focused on high-tech industries and large firms. The paper addresses this gap by examining how SBMI can support sustainable regional development in low-tech contexts, using organic primary production in Skåne, Sweden's southernmost region, as a case study. Drawing on 19 semi-structured interviews, the study applies a conceptual framework to analyse SBMI and its contribution to sustainable regional development. Findings reveal innovations that enhance food production efficiency and sustainability, emphasising collaboration, social capital and diversification as key to resilience and cost reduction. The study identifies a partial mismatch between regional and national strategies, urging policymakers to address producers’ needs and include them in policy dialogues. Additionally, the paper underscores the need for a shift towards environmental regeneration, social sustainability and economic viability in value creation for producers in the region. Future research should explore the social and economic viability of primary producers, who often face innovation constraints, to enhance sustainable regional development and resilience.