The evolution of the enterprise's sustainable development concept

Abstract

The article is dedicated to analyzing the evolution of the business concept, focusing on integrating sustainable development principles into strategic management and corporate culture. The research aims to identify critical trends and changes in understanding the role and functions of enterprises in the context of globalization, environmental challenges, and social expectations. Using historical analysis, comparative methods, and the systematization of scientific approaches, the paper demonstrates the transformation of the business model from profit-oriented to ensuring balanced development. The findings reveal that the concept and essence of enterprises and commercial activities are constantly reviewed and reinterpreted to meet current challenges: evolution from simple artisan workshops to complex, multi-level organizations operating within the global economy and rapid changes, with an emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. From antiquity to the present, the work highlights how changes in economic theories, technological progress, and globalization processes have facilitated the transition from traditional forms of business forms to integrated models encompassing mental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical management. This historical perspective allows for a deeper understanding of the dynamics of changes in entrepreneurship approaches and identifies the main challenges and opportunities for modern enterprises in sustainable development. The scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive approach to studying the evolution of the enterprise, allowing for an assessment of the impact of sustainable development on management theory and practice. The practical significance is determined by the possibility of using the findings to formulate sustainable development strategies for enterprises. Future research prospects are focused on analyzing specific tools and methods for implementing sustainable development principles in enterprise management. Keywords: enterprise, sustainable development, balanced development, globalization, management.