How to Support Start-Ups in Developing a Sustainable Business Model: The Case of an European Social Impact Accelerator

Sustainability-oriented start-ups are fundamental to developing solutions for, and fostering, a societal transition towards low carbon society. In this context, social impact accelerators (SIAs) organizations specializing in accelerating the progress of sustainability-oriented start-ups. order design their accelerator elements (e.g., training, coaching, funding) effectively, SIAs must be aware knowledge needs support them sustainable business model (SBM). Using case study approach, we present one largest cleantech programs Europe, EIT Climate-KIC RIS Accelerator. Based on program’s curriculum manual 2019, analyze from perspective program how could supported development SBMs by presenting that intended reducing (1) providing new trainings, workshops, e-learning), (2) supporting start-ups’ assimilation coaching), (3) application documentation planning reporting as part contract design). Further, discuss 63 European before result participation SBM based qualitative quantitative data. All participated same batch 2019. Regarding SBM, described considering triple bottom line including economic, ecological, layer model. evaluation, reflect—with focus environmental layer—about most promising content our SIA address different layers, combination, improvement potentials reduce needs. With findings, claim contribute theory emerging literature give practitioners working with insights into usefulness start-up for SBM.