Shaping Sustainable Business Models

Sustainable development and the circular transition are increasingly important in both science and practice. Despite technological advances, the adoption of sustainable solutions has not met expectations. Scholars and practitioners are now focusing on sustainable business model innovation as a crucial pathway to demonstrate the value of new sustainable technologies. While there is an emphasis on integrating the interests of various stakeholders and their economic, environmental, and social goals, there is limited understanding of which stakeholders are involved, how they interact, and how this interaction affects the business modelling process.

This thesis explores the dynamics of collaborative business modelling for sustainability by examining stakeholder interaction at both the firm level and within innovation ecosystems. Through three empirical studies and a design science study, the thesis reveals that stakeholder interaction and business modelling are interdependent. It uncovers the processes by which stakeholder interactions shape the development of sustainable business models. Additionally, it identifies key contributors to business model innovation for sustainability, distinguishes between stakeholder roles, and provides a practical tool, thereby advancing both theoretical knowledge and practical application.