How permaculture can inspire sustainable entrepreneurial training: the case of the Permaentrepreneurs course

Permaculture, originating in the 1970s, addresses environmental degradation caused by modern practices. In France, the permaentreprise movement, led by the IT consulting firm Norsys, promotes sustainable business models inspired by permaculture. Norsys, with its €52m turnover, exemplifies this model by reducing environmental impact, empowering employees, and sharing profits. Through initiatives like the School of Permaentrepreneurs, Norsys disseminates permaculture principles, fostering sustainability and innovation. The School of Permaentrepreneurs offers a three-day seminar providing participants with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to implement the permaentreprise model. By emphasizing experiential and cooperative learning, the course empowers participants to develop sustainable business models aligned with permaculture ethics. Despite challenges, like evaluating the model’s effectiveness and transferring educational programs to other institutions globally, permaentreprise shows promise as a framework for sustainable entrepreneurship education, gaining traction in French institutions.