<scp>AI</scp> ‐Enabled Decision Making and Social Intrapreneurial Opportunity Identification in <scp>SMEs</scp> : The Roles of Circular Economy Application and Pro‐Social Environmental Orientation

ABSTRACT This study examines how AI‐enabled decision‐making influences the identification of social intrapreneurial opportunities. It focuses on the mediating roles of circular economy practices and pro‐social and environmental orientation. Using survey data from 473 employees at SMEs in Henan Province, China, the study tests hypotheses with partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) via Smart‐PLS. The results show that AI‐enabled decision‐making significantly and positively impacts the identification of social intrapreneurial opportunities. Additionally, both circular economy practices and a pro‐social and environmental orientation significantly mediate this relationship by explaining how AI‐enabled decision‐making leads to the recognition of social and environmental opportunities. By linking AI, social intrapreneurship, and sustainability, the study adds to research on technology‐driven sustainability, employee opportunity identification, and internal social and environmental value creation. The findings offer theoretical and practical guidance for managers, SME leaders, and policymakers seeking to leverage AI to promote sustainability‐focused innovation and responsible opportunity identification within organizations.