Table 9

Sample qualitative themes, representative quotes and corresponding quantitative impacts

Theme/MechanismRepresentative quoteCorresponding quantitative finding/impactSDG alignment
Strategic pivots and market repositioning“Our mentor really pushed us to reconsider our target market for SDG 6. We made a significant pivot, and that’s when we saw our user engagement metrics double.”Positive change in social impact scores (SDG 6); high loading on Q9 (business idea validation)SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
Enhanced confidence and skill application“Before the program, I was unsure about our financial projections. The workshops on financial modeling [Q20, Q23] completely changed that. My confidence [Q24] soared, and we secured a pilot investor.”Significant increase in entrepreneur confidence levels; Positive loading on Q20 (Financial Support) and Q23 (business model development)SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)
Leveraging networks for access to resources“AAST-EC’s network was invaluable. They introduced us to a key supplier that dramatically reduced our production costs, directly impacting our venture’s sustainability.”High loading on Q16 (networking) and Q17 (partnership); Positive correlation with overall growth of venturesSDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)
Curriculum reinforcing SDG alignment“The dedicated sessions on impact measurement [Q11] made us rethink our entire process. We now track our contributions to SDG 13 much more rigorously, making our pitch stronger.”Increased social impact scores (SDG 13); high loading on Q11 (idea validation/impact measurement)SDG 13 (Climate Action)
Source(s): Table created by authors

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