Cultural entrepreneurship and cultural initiatives: stakeholder collaboration, networks, and participatory governance

Abstract Purpose: This editorial belongs to the joint Special Issue on “Cultural entrepreneurship and cultural initiatives: challenges in a new context” launched by PISB - Piccola Impresa - Small Business and the EJCMP - European Journal of Cultural Management and Policy. It focuses on how cultural entrepreneurship and cultural initiatives foster innovation and sustainable development across different socio-spatial contexts through collaboration, networks and participatory governance. Design/methodology/approach: The editorial synthesizes findings from four contributions focused on cultural ecosystems, governance, entrepreneurship, and heritage-driven development. Findings: Cultural initiatives serve as transformative connectors across sectors, supporting innovation, resilience, and inclusivity. Their impact varies contextually, influenced by governance models, entrepreneurial mindsets, and socio-cultural embeddedness, showing culture’s potential in driving sustainable urban and regional development. Practical and social implications: The studies highlight culture’s capacity to foster equitable development, revitalize urban and peripheral areas, support inclusive governance, and enhance the sustainability of cultural ecosystems by linking tradition, innovation, and community engagemen Purpose: This editorial belongs to the joint Special Issue on “Cultural entrepreneurship and cultural initiatives: challenges in a new context” launched by PISB - Piccola Impresa - Small Business and the EJCMP - European Journal of Cultural Management and Policy. It focuses on how cultural entrepreneurship and initiatives foster innovation and sustainable development across different socio-spatial contexts through collaboration, networks and participatory governance. Design/methodology/approach: The editorial synthesizes findings from four contributions focused on cultural ecosystems, governance, entrepreneurship, and heritage-driven development. Findings: Cultural initiatives serve as transformative connectors across sectors, supporting innovation, resilience, and inclusivity. Their impact varies contextually, influenced by governance models, entrepreneurial mindsets, and socio-cultural embeddedness, showing culture's potential in driving sustainable urban and regional development. Practical and social implications: The studies highlight culture’s capacity to foster equitable development, revitalize urban and peripheral areas, support inclusive governance, and enhance the sustainability of cultural ecosystems by linking tradition, innovation, and community engagement.