Presenting a Qualitative Model of Sustainable Entrepreneurship in the Social Innovation Hub of Islamic Azad University
Keywords:
Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Social Innovation, Islamic Azad UniversityAbstract
Given the importance of sustainable entrepreneurship in universities and the role of social innovation hubs in achieving sustainable development, this study aimed to identify the dimensions and present a qualitative model for sustainable entrepreneurship in the Social Innovation Hub of Islamic Azad University. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach with the goal of presenting a sustainable entrepreneurship model for the Social Innovation Hub of Islamic Azad University. The statistical population consisted of managers and experts familiar with entrepreneurship and social innovation. Through purposive sampling, 13 individuals were selected for semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method, and an initial framework was extracted. This framework was then provided to 15 experts, and ultimately, the final qualitative model of sustainable entrepreneurship was developed based on expert consensus. The results indicated that the overarching themes derived from the study’s findings included: initiating capacities in sustainable entrepreneurship, defining processes and mechanisms, sustainability pillars, performance reflections, and supportive and facilitating structures. Overall, the findings suggest that sustainable entrepreneurship in the Social Innovation Hub is a multifaceted and dynamic phenomenon that can only be realized through the simultaneous interaction of all themes identified in this study. When all these elements come together, Islamic Azad University can act as a pioneering institution in the field of sustainable entrepreneurship and provide a localized model for other universities and innovation institutions in the country.
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