We began this book by referencing The Matrix, aiming to instil a sense of urgency and empowerment in entrepreneurs, showing them how they can realise their potential as regenerative leaders to transform our world into one that is truly sustainable. While acknowledging the importance of degrowth as part of the solution, our focus has been on green growth, particularly through concepts like the circular economy and strategies for staying within planetary boundaries. This shift redefines entrepreneurship from a focus on individual gain to a collective responsibility for fostering sustainable growth and regeneration. Entrepreneurs are positioned as key catalysts for the transition to a circular economy, addressing the complex challenges of green growth while developing solutions that balance economic success with ecological preservation. Throughout these pages, the concept of the entrepreneur has evolved. Entrepreneurs are no longer simply business owners or innovators, they are reimagined as stewards of sustainability. Their entrepreneurial behaviour embodies a profound commitment to environmental restoration, social impact, and long-term resilience. By embracing regenerative leadership, these individuals emerge as architects of a future where economic activities not only avoid harm but actively enhance the systems they depend on. At the core of this transformation lies collective agency in change management and forwardthinking leadership practices. Change cannot rely solely on individual leaders; it requires a coordinated effort from networks of stakeholders across all organisational and societal levels. By deepening their understanding of both themselves and the environment, change agents can develop visions that align with their values, fostering collaborative, meaningful transformations. The research group plays a pivotal role here, exploring collective agency and equipping SMEs with the strategies and tools needed to align their operations with the principles of the well-being economy. This involves not merely preventing environmentally harmful practices but enabling the shift towards regenerative leadership. Our mission is to support businesses in addressing critical questions about green growth, the circular economy, and the balance between economic vitality and ecological sustainability. By engaging in practice-oriented research tailored to SMEs, the group provides actionable insights that empower businesses to thrive within a well-being economy, where success is measured not only in profit but also in positive social and environmental impact. In this context, Escaping the Matrix becomes a manifesto for the research group’s dedication to Entrepreneurial Behaviour, Regenerative Leadership, and Collective Agency. Together, these elements form the foundation for enabling the transition to a sustainable, prosperous future. “Sustainable innovation is about more than just creating new products; it is about fostering a cultural shift that integrates environmental and social considerations into the very core of business practices.” - Frank Boons and Lüdeke-Freund (2013) Chapter 9 52 Chapter 9. Conclusion
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODY1MjQ=