This prototype outlines a conceptual learning offer designed to raise awareness among university students, young entrepreneurs, and early-career professionals on the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria in the context of subsidised finance.

The idea was developed during a curricular internship at Smart Revolution (Turin and Massa Carrara offices), where the student explored how ESG principles are increasingly tied to access to funding—particularly in calls related to Industry 4.0 and 5.0.

The learning offer introduces participants to ESG concepts, the UN SDGs, and practical methods for evaluating public tenders and business opportunities through a sustainability lens. It proposes a modular structure blending theoretical insight with applied practice, and can be integrated into university programmes, entrepreneurial support schemes, or finance-related training.

The prototype aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by equipping learners with tools to navigate finance systems that increasingly reward sustainable innovation.

Challenge

There is a growing need to equip students and young professionals with the ability to interpret business strategy and public finance mechanisms through a sustainability lens. While ESG compliance is increasingly a condition for funding and competitiveness, many lack the awareness or tools to critically assess funding calls or investment decisions from an ESG perspective.

Target Groups:

• Direct beneficiaries: Students in economics, management, finance, or entrepreneurship.
• Indirect beneficiaries: Trainers, academic staff, and early-stage entrepreneurs seeking to integrate sustainability into funding strategies.

Solution

The prototype proposes a blended learning offer consisting of:

• Introductory Workshop on ESG and SDGs in the context of European innovation and finance frameworks.
• Case-based Modules analysing real calls for proposals related to Industry 4.0/5.0 through ESG impact lenses.
• Interactive Tools such as a sustainability quiz (modelled on the T4S SDG Explorer Course) and ESG readiness checklist for students.
• Practical Simulation where participants draft or assess mock funding proposals considering ESG criteria.

Innovation

The learning offer links ESG awareness to the practical realities of accessing finance, encouraging a forward-looking mindset around business sustainability. It merges public policy knowledge, sustainability literacy, and entrepreneurial thinking—supporting the shift toward responsible innovation and innopreneurship.

Impact

If implemented, the prototype would help close the gap between traditional finance education and the emerging expectations around sustainable business. It would prepare students and young entrepreneurs to:

• Critically analyse funding opportunities and tenders with a sustainability mindset.
• Align their innovation strategies with ESG frameworks.
• Understand how ESG performance is becoming a competitive advantage in accessing credit and support.

The model also supports institutional objectives to embed sustainability into business and economics curricula.

This student project is submitted through:
Smart Revolution.