Towards a micro-level explanation of sustainability transitions: entrepreneurial strategies

In this paper we argue that insights in the actor level of sustainability transitions are a necessary next step in the study of sustainability transitions. The paper outlines a first step towards a more systematic analysis of actor strategies in sustainability transitions by linking strategies described in the sustainable entrepreneurship literature to the technological innovation systems literature. The focus is thereby on nascent entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial incumbent firms which both play a crucial role in developing and commercializing the technologies needed in a transition to sustainability. Our analysis points to two avenues for further research: the role of legitimacy strategies in sustainability transitions and the role of cooperative versus competitive strategies in sustainability transitions.