Lab 4: Creative Technology, Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Creative Technologies for Social Change and Sustainability research lab is an interdisciplinary hub that delves into the symbiotic relationship between creativity and entrepreneurship, focusing on fostering sustainability and meaningful social transformation. Our core belief is that creativity catalyses entrepreneurship, spearheading innovation and community-led social evolution, culminating in sustainable and impactful innovations.

The lab places human-centred design at the forefront of its investigations, utilising this approach to foster a more equitable, creative and sustainable society. Our research encompasses the study of organisations and entrepreneurs in high-tech and creative industries, examining their potential as catalysts for pro-social change. We explore how these innovators leverage technology and creative processes to address societal challenges, driving change that resonates on both local and global scales. We aim to develop solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also profoundly empathetic and responsive to the communities they serve. We aspire to create a collaborative environment where research transcends academic boundaries, engaging with communities, policy-makers, and industry leaders to effect tangible change. Our projects often manifest as enterprise and industry reports, policy recommendations, or digital solutions, each embodying our commitment to utilising creative technologies for the greater good.

This lab is committed to supporting and educating the next generation of leaders in this field. Through research, workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects, we provide the knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate and innovate within the complex intersection of technology, sustainability, and social change. We warmly invite collaboration and enquiries about research, including doctoral studies, education, and consultancy initiatives.

Lab Leader

<span class='contactname'>Dr Marios Samdanis</span>

Dr Marios Samdanis
Senior Lecturer in Strategy Entrepreneurship and International Management

Lab Members

<span class='contactname'>Dr Chrystalla Kapetaniou</span>

Dr Chrystalla Kapetaniou
Lecturer (University of Southampton)

<span class='contactname'>Dr Nicos Souleles</span>

Dr Nicos Souleles
Associate Professor (Cyprus University of Technology)

<span class='contactname'>Dr Mariana Bogdanova</span>

Dr Mariana Bogdanova
Lecturer in Management

<span class='contactname'>Dr Raffaella Valsecchi</span>

Dr Raffaella Valsecchi
Reader

Research Interests

Creative technology
Human-centred design
Social entrepreneurship
Sustainable innovation

Past Projects

Samdanis, M. (2023). Food technology and sustainability, Sustainability-related Performance: Global Good Security, British Academy of Management (PERF-M).
Souleles, N., Samdanis, M., & Papageorgiou, E. (2023). Learning toolkit for sustainable assessment through digital technologies – DigiComp Edu framework. DigitalHEIghts.
Samdanis, M. & Kirk, T. (2022). Evaluating the commercial viability, social and environmental impact for the Ionech Next Generation Energy Systems (INGES) devices in the UK.
Souleles, N., Samdanis, M., Savva, S., Ferreira, A.M., & Laghos, A. (2020). Cultural entrepreneurship for women from marginalised backgrounds: Toolkit for adult educators. CREATION.

Educational Activities & Public Engagement

Samdanis, M. (2023). Sustainability and innovation in the creative industries, Value Creation Masterclass Series, Brunel HIVE & the Creative Industries Hub. Brunel University London, June 2023.
Samdanis, M. (2022). Innovation and entrepreneurship in the creative industries, Marie Curie Alumni Association, Greece Chapter, February 2022.