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Does CEO’s entrepreneurial experience promote corporate green innovation? Evidence from private-owned listed enterprises in China

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  • Liu, Chun
  • Zhang, Zhaoguo
  • Zhao, Mu

Abstract

This study examines the impact of CEOs' entrepreneurial experience on corporate green innovation in the context of China’s dual-carbon strategy using a sample of Chinese A-share private-owned listed firms from 2007 to 2023.Our findings show that CEOs with entrepreneurial backgrounds significantly enhance green innovation performance. This effect is driven by three key mechanisms: reinforcing CEOs’ green innovation motivation, fostering a green strategic orientation, and increasing corporate risk-taking capacity. Additionally, the effect is stronger in regions with stricter environmental regulations and for CEOs with higher education background. Our results also highlight the positive influence of green innovation on both financial and environmental performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Chun & Zhang, Zhaoguo & Zhao, Mu, 2025. "Does CEO’s entrepreneurial experience promote corporate green innovation? Evidence from private-owned listed enterprises in China," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 87(C), pages 2592-2606.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:87:y:2025:i:c:p:2592-2606
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2025.08.047
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