Beyond making a profit: Using the UN SDGs in entrepreneurship programs to help nurture sustainable entrepreneurs

Abstract

We examine the entrepreneurial journeys of two students as they transit from entrepreneurship students to sustainable entrepreneurs. Among the lessons from the two cases, we highlight the importance of early exposure to sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the positive role of an entrepreneurial education program, and the critical role of a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem that includes diverse and passionate students along with supportive faculty and mentors. These lessons can be applied to help other students and young entrepreneurs who are mission-driven to make a difference through sustainable entrepreneurship.