Innovative pathways to sustainable community development through youth entrepreneurship

Purpose Sustainable entrepreneurship (SE) is gaining momentum as an innovative pathway for tackling global environmental challenges and fostering sustainable community development. Underpinned by the theory of planned behavior, this study aims to identify the main determinants influencing Higher Education students' intentions to undertake SE (a behavior essential for community-level transformation) while also examining the moderating role of perceived feasibility. Design/methodology/approach Empirical data were collected from 280 university graduates in Tunisia, providing a critical “global insight” into youth engagement in sustainable practices within an emerging economy context. Findings Data analysis using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) shows that several factors significantly and positively predict sustainable entrepreneurial intention (SEI): environmental values (a psychological factor), green consumption commitment (a sustainable behavior lever), environmental citizenship (a community engagement factor) and education for sustainable entrepreneurship (an innovative educational pathway). These intentions subsequently affect sustainable entrepreneurial behavior, and the relationship is significantly moderated by perceived feasibility. Originality/value This research provides an original contribution by developing and expanding the literature on SE by identifying specific educational and psychological antecedents that empower youth, a key demographic for community change, to pursue sustainable ventures. Furthermore, it is among the rare studies to investigate the moderating role of perceived feasibility in the transition from sustainable entrepreneurial intention to concrete sustainable entrepreneurial behavior. This approach brings a novel perspective on how youth entrepreneurship can foster sustainable community development. It offers direct, evidence-based insights for managers and practitioners to design innovative strategies and educational programs that stimulate the sustainable entrepreneurial actions and mindsets necessary for community development.