Social Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Do They Fit?

Abstract

Purpose: This paper attempts to answer the question to what extent the entrepreneurial ecosystems theory fits in with the social entrepreneurship phenomenon. The objective is to fill this gap by presenting findings from an integrative review of prior systematic reviews available in the entrepreneurial ecosystems literature. Design/methodology/approach: In the paper, we apply a scoping review and an umbrella review focused on an in-depth analysis of findings obtained in previous reviews, thus taking the form of a review aiming for theory development. Findings: Our paper contributes to addressing the gaps in the current literature on social entrepreneurship and ecosystems. First, it points to the different types of actors in social entrepreneurial ecosystems (SEE), whose existence may foster social entrepreneurship and facilitate creating social impact. Second, it brings into focus the potential of SEE by drawing attention to the fact that a productive entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) results in job creation and reduction of unemployment, both of which are crucial for social entrepreneurship. Third, as a result of this scoping review, it proposes an extension of Isenberg’s model of EE which can be seen as a cumulative contribution to existing knowledge in the field. Research limitations/implications: This study has certain limitations typical for reviewing investigations. Originality/value: The special value of the paper can be seen in the scoping literature review itself. So far, there has been limited study on social entrepreneurial ecosystems, the role of entrepreneurial ecosystems in development of social enterprises, and conversely, the role of social “components” in entrepreneurial ecosystems.