"Community Business Models in 19th-Century Sailing Ships"

This paper explores the community aspects of the business model inherent in the operations of 19th-century sailing ships. It examines how maritime communities fostered sustainable economic networks and resource cycles that predate modern circular economy concepts. Unlike later industrial enterprises, this paper argues that sailing ships were operated as cooperative and community-based economies. The paper positions these communities within the broader context of 19th-century global trade and maritime economics, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between risk management, entrepreneurship and economic necessity that drove these practices and business models. The paper not only sheds light on the adaptive business strategies of the era’s maritime industry and communities but also suggest that while contemporary circular economy practices may appear novel, they draw upon a rich legacy that include resource management and community-focused business models and organizations that are evident and included in the maritime industry and business of sailing ships of the 19th century.