Analyzing the Competencies of Bio Entrepreneurs in Canada's Manufacturing Sector: Assessing Socioeconomic and Environmental Implications

Abstract

As environmental sustainability becomes an urgent global priority, there is growing interest regarding how business practices and entrepreneurship can become part of the solution. Concepts such as “bio-entrepreneurship” and “eco-literacy” suggest that increasing ecological awareness and sustainable business models could drive positive change. This research examined connections between environmental literacy, knowledge-sharing, innovation, and entrepreneurial competencies to better understand these relationships. Surveys were conducted with 228 business owners in the manufacturing sector in Canada to collect data on metrics tied to eco-literacy, participation in the knowledge economy, green innovation, green knowledge practices, and bio-entrepreneurial capacities. Statistical analyses were performed to analyze paths between these key variables. The results revealed a robust positive link between eco-literacy and bio-entrepreneurial potential, indicating that increasing ecological knowledge could significantly empower environmentally sustainable entrepreneurship. Eco-literacy also showed a strong correlation with green innovation. These findings suggest that integration of environmental education across academic and business leadership training programs could be a pivotal part of spurring growth in green industries and sustainable startups. It underscores the importance of eco-literacy in readying emerging business leaders to drive change.