Leveraging Intrapreneurship for Sustainable Development: A Conceptual and Empirical Analysis of SDG Alignment in Kenya

Abstract

Intrapreneurship, the pursuit of entrepreneurial initiatives within established organizations, is a vital yet underexplored driver of innovation and sustainable development. This study examines how intrapreneurial strategies in Kenya contribute to achieving select Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); decent work and economic growth (Goal 8), Industry and Innovation (Goal 9), Affordable Clean Energy (Goal 7), and Climate action (Goal 13); in alignment with Kenya's Vision 2030. Using a desk review methodology, the paper synthesizes secondary data from academic literature, corporate sustainability reports, national policy frameworks, and SDG progress reports (2015–2024). Furthermore, drawing on organizational innovation theory, the analysis highlights how firms like Safaricom and KCB leverage intrapreneurial projects, such as mobile-based financial inclusion platforms and renewable energy pilots, to address development priorities like youth employment and climate resilience. Findings reveal, that intrapreneurship offers a scalable pathway for embedding sustainability in business models, though its potential remains constrained by limited policy incentives. In the light of this, the paper proposes a framework for enhancing intrapreneurial ecosystems through policy reform, leadership commitment, and cross-sector collaboration. More so, these insights hold implications for advancing inclusive development in Kenya and other emerging economies by 2030.