Sustaining the business: A DEMATEL-based ANP model to explore critical success factors of agricultural start-ups

Agricultural start-ups have the potential to drive innovation and economic growth in emerging economies. However, they often encounter constraints, such as limited access to technology, markets, and financing. Additionally, many struggle to establish and sustain their businesses over time. Therefore, this study aims to identify and evaluate the critical success factors (CSFs) that enable agricultural start-ups in Indonesia to achieve business sustainability. Initially, 37 CSFs across seven dimensions were identified and validated using the content validity index and modified kappa method. To analyze the interrelationships among these factors and determine their priorities, a hybrid Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory–based Analytic Network Process approach was utilized. The findings reveal that digital data analytics emerges as the top-priority success factor, followed by technology adoption and data and system security. The study’s results provide practical insights for entrepreneurs, policy makers, and stakeholders to promote the growth and sustainability of agricultural start-ups in Indonesia.