Qualitative-Quantitative Analysis of ESG Practices in the Daughter Companies of Unicamp's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Abstract

In light of growing socioeconomic inequalities and the climate emergency, traditional business models require reform through collaborative innovation systems. Helical architectures — the Triple, Quadruple, and Quintuple Helix models — integrate universities, government, industry, civil society, and the environment, fostering sustainable innovation. In Brazil, this approach is reflected in the universities’ third mission: the transfer of knowledge for socioeconomic development, as exemplified by the initiatives of Unicamp. The university stands out for generating “alumni companies,” totaling 1,588 by 2024, of which 4% operate in the Green Technologies sector. Notable examples include Ecomilhas, which promotes sustainable mobility by rewarding environmentally responsible travel; Valora Madeira, which enhances wood quality assessment through applied technology; and Generation Brasil, an educational impact platform focused on people in vulnerable situations. The growing adoption of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices by these companies demonstrates alignment with sustainable policies and a socioecological transition. The aim of this study is to highlight the alumni companies that have adopted ESG policies in their business models, based on the analysis of 408 registrations, in which 50% of the companies reported implementing such practices.