Role of green entrepreneurial orientation and financial inclusion in advancing green venture creation and sustainable development goals in Saudi Arabia

This study examines how green entrepreneurial orientation (GEO) and financial inclusion (FI) influence the emergence of green ventures. Using structured interviews with thirty participants (green entrepreneurs, SME managers, and business mentors) in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran, the study employs a qualitative research methodology. It also makes clear that data analysis was carried out in accordance with ethical approval and informed consent procedures, using thematic analysis in accordance with Braun and Clarke’s framework. Thematic analysis demonstrates that GEO, especially opportunity-seeking, innovation, and measured risk-taking, drives the expansion of green businesses across industries such as renewable energy, eco-packaging, and sustainable housing. However, high financing costs, a lack of green-focused financial products, and gaps in digital access continue to make FI uneven. Participants recognised that GEO and FI could improve SDG-related outcomes, but institutional obstacles, disjointed policies, and insufficient green funding diminish their efficacy. Green accelerators, entrepreneurial resilience, and focused government initiatives are examples of enablers that support SDG advancement. The study concludes that in order to fully utilise GEO and FI for the development of green ventures, systemic improvements in financial access, policy coordination, and technological support are necessary to achieve Vision 2030 sustainability goals.