Abstract
In an era of polycrisis, where challenges such as inequality, environmental degradation, and economic instability intersect, rethinking capitalism is imperative. Traditional models, focusing solely on profit maximization and economic growth, are insufficient to address the complexities of today’s global landscape. Prior research largely concentrated on how entrepreneurship contributes not just to economic, but even to the social progress of locations, but less is known on how social progress influences entrepreneurship. This chapter examines the role of social progress in enhancing the dynamism of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems (EEs). Moving beyond conventional economic and institutional perspectives, it explores how social progress—measured through Basic Human Needs (BHN), Foundations of Well-being (FOW), and Opportunities—shapes the resilience and vibrancy of EEs. Utilizing fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) across Italian provinces with diverse socio-economic contexts, the study identifies key pathways through which social progress fosters the long-term sustainability of EEs. The findings provide valuable insights for advancing EE theories, informing policy frameworks aimed at enhancing regional competitiveness, and offering business leaders strategies to drive sustainable growth and innovation within their ecosystems.
