Innovative Pathways in Business and Society

In today’s interconnected and fast-paced world, the dynamics of business and management are constantly evolving, reflecting shifts in societal needs, technological advancements, and organizational priorities. From embracing sustainability through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to rethinking urban development in the pursuit of smarter cities, these transformations highlight the critical role of innovation and adaptability. As Kotter (1996) aptly noted, "True change demands a fundamental shift in the underlying culture and practices of organizations."The thirty-third regular issue of the European Journal of Applied Business and Management (EJABM) has been published, continuing its mission to provide a robust platform for innovative research in the dynamic fields of applied business and management. This edition highlights an engaging array of topics that reflect the evolving challenges and opportunities in these disciplines.This issue features seven original research articles, each meticulously reviewed through a rigorous double-blind peer-review process to ensure the highest standards of academic integrity and quality. EJABM is proud to include contributions from authors in Portugal and Nigeria, showcasing the diverse perspectives and global reach of the journal’s scholarly community.The interplay between leadership, culture, and innovation is particularly pertinent in today’s business landscape. Effective leadership fosters an environment where creativity and adaptability thrive, setting the stage for groundbreaking ideas. Similarly, the rise of digital platforms and influencer-driven marketing showcases how technology reshapes consumer behavior, driving businesses to innovate in their communication strategies. Giffinger et al. (2007) observe that smart cities, as an example, integrate technology and governance to address modern challenges, underscoring the importance of cross-disciplinary approaches.The research articles in this edition delve into critical themes such as resistance to organizational change in the public sector, corporate social responsibility strategies, the development of smart cities, the influence of digital marketing, quality reporting in public entities, cause-related marketing in luxury markets, and the interplay between leadership, culture, and innovation. These studies offer valuable insights for both academics and practitioners across disciplines including management, finance, public administration, digital marketing, and organizational development.We trust that the thirty-third issue of EJABM will stimulate intellectual discussions and inspire future research endeavors in the broad spectrum of applied business and management.We invite readers to delve into this collection, which not only contributes to ongoing scholarly discourse but also provides actionable perspectives on navigating the complexities of contemporary business and management.DOI: https://doi.org/10.58869/EJABM10(3)/00