SUSTAINABLE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A DRIVER OF ECONOMIC RECOVERY

Abstract

This article examines sustainable entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic recovery in the context of global instability, structural transformations, and increasing socio-environmental challenges. The study is based on the premise that traditional growth-oriented business models are insufficient to ensure long-term economic resilience, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Therefore, the integration of sustainability principles into entrepreneurial activity is becoming a critical condition for building adaptive and competitive economic systems. The paper substantiates the theoretical foundations of sustainable entrepreneurship and identifies its role in stimulating economic growth, innovation, employment, and regional development. It is argued that sustainable entrepreneurial practices contribute to economic recovery through resource-efficient production, the implementation of green and digital technologies, the diversification of economic structures, and the creation of long-term value for multiple stakeholders. The research highlights that sustainable entrepreneurship enhances innovation capacity by promoting new business models, circular economy solutions, and responsible investment strategies, which strengthen the competitiveness of firms and national economies. The study also analyzes key factors and barriers affecting the development of sustainable entrepreneurship, including institutional conditions, access to finance, human capital quality, technological readiness, and socio-cultural determinants. Particular attention is given to financial constraints, regulatory uncertainty, skills gaps, and technological inequalities as major obstacles to the scaling of sustainable business initiatives. At the same time, supportive public policies, innovation ecosystems, entrepreneurial education, and cross-sector partnerships are identified as essential enablers of sustainable entrepreneurial growth. Based on the findings, the article proposes a set of policy and managerial recommendations aimed at stimulating sustainable entrepreneurship as a mechanism for economic recovery.