Social Entrepreneurship Research Articles

Evaluating the Credibility of Entrepreneurs’ Impact Promises in Early-Stage Impact Investing

This article investigates ethnographically how early-stage impact investors evaluate the credibility of the impact promises made by social entrepreneurs. Uncovering how investors carry out this task beyond observable characteristics and self-reported prosocial intentions, I propose that their evaluation of impact promises centers on four interrelated aspects of the entrepreneurs’ behavior: impact metrics, impact track record, impact management, and impact prospects. I articulate these aspects into a framework explaining how credible beliefs about entrepreneurs’ impact promises emerge among investors and embolden their investment decisions.

Revisiting the research on social networks and entrepreneurship: An integrative framework and research agenda

AbstractFollowing on from reviews about social networks and entrepreneurship published more than 10 years ago, this article updates our knowledge by reviewing and grouping representative studies among 693 articles selected from the Web of Science. This review identifies research patterns in major subrealms, examines research achievements in the light of earlier reviews' suggestions discusses directions for further research, and develops an integrative framework to advance theory and empirical knowledge of social networks and entrepreneurship.

Blooming social impact: Growing Appalachian Botanical Company’s resource partnerships in a rural ecosystem

Research methodology This case is based on primary and secondary data collection. ABCo’s Founder, Jocelyn Sheppard, sat down with the author for a 75-min recorded interview in July 2022, and she provided follow-up information via email. Interview data was supplemented with secondary data from publicly available sources to fill in portions on the founder, the company’s history and its location; and triangulate the collected interview data (Creswell and Poth, 2018). There are no conflicts of interest that the author needs to disclose related to the founder or company. The case was piloted at one institution in the Fall 2022, Spring 2023 and Fall 2023 semesters, with 59 undergraduates in an in-person social entrepreneurship course and 165 undergraduates and 33 graduate students in an online asynchronous social entrepreneurship course. All students worked through the case in groups, and as a requirement of their corresponding assignment submission, they provided feedback that was de-identified. In total, 60 groups reported their feedback, which was considered during the subsequent drafts of the case and instructors’ manual IM. According to the anonymized feedback, the protagonist, product line, desired social impact and experienced challenges of ABCo were all said to be interesting, approachable and relatable for students, and the case piqued the interest of students coming from different majors (e.g. business, environmental issues, human services and criminal justice). Students from rural areas, or those who have family in rural areas, felt the case was particularly interesting; a handful of the students in the asynchronous online class who were unfamiliar with such settings suggested providing students with some additional contextualization of rural environments, either through class discussion with other students who had experience in those environments or additional media or text-based supports. Further adjustments also included removing a reading and a corresponding question and revising elements within the Teaching Approaches section of the IM to support the additions they suggested within the feedback (i.e. spending time to define and walk through the provided model and highlight the differences of rural entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship in the rural as a class before engaging in the related write-ups for that question). Case overview/synopsis Jocelyn Sheppard, Founder of Appalachian Botanical Company (“ABCo”), had built her company not just on a vision of revitalizing reclaimed coal mine land through planting and producing products with lavender, but also to have a social impact on the rural town of Ashford and its greater region of Boone County in West Virginia, USA. While she understood that hiring workers in need of a second chance would present its challenges, she was shocked by the depth of social need her new employees presented, which contributed to many employees’ disruptive behaviors and turnover. To approach the problem at hand, Sheppard needed to reflect on the resources around her, namely, other entities and organizations who might be able to support her efforts to improve how ABCo delivers on its social mission and, thus, helps to improve the local community and its economy. The case draws upon literature and models within rural entrepreneurship and community development to have students advise Sheppard on what she should do next to improve the social outcomes for ABCo and its employees. Complexity academic level This case is geared for both upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses in entrepreneurship, including in social, environmental and rural entrepreneurship courses and course modules. The case introduces students to a social enterprise struggling to get its footing in a rural context. The case would be suitable for both introductory and advanced courses, especially when placemaking/place-based entrepreneurship or ecosystem building are discussed.

The Influence of Social Media and Perceived Barriers on Formation of Social Entrepreneurial Intention: A Conceptual Framework

Social entrepreneurship is garnering global attention and emerging as a noteworthy business model. Scholars and practitioners assert that social entrepreneurship is pivotal in addressing and resolving social problems through sustainable solutions. However, evidence suggests that barriers can impede individuals from becoming social entrepreneurs or postpone the decision to initiate a social venture. Furthermore, despite the influential role of social media in shaping general public attitudes and behavior, there is limited attention given to its impact on social entrepreneurship. Consequently, this study employs the theory of planned behavior to create a new framework that incorporates various variables potentially influencing social entrepreneurial intention (SEI). This study contributes to the social entrepreneurship literature by offering new insights into the factors affecting SEI. Beyond advancing theoretical knowledge, it enhances policymakers' understanding of the antecedents of SEI, enabling them to formulate effective policies that encourage suitable individuals to pursue social entrepreneurship.

When given two choices, take both! Social impact assessment in social entrepreneurship

ABSTRACT This paper examines how social entrepreneurs construct impact arguments as they begin to assess social impact. We examined the experiences of 68 social entrepreneurs in Chile and discovered that the construction of arguments for the purpose of thinking about and experiencing impact is different than the arguments constructed to establish dialogues around it. We explain this dual argument construction as arguments for worth and arguments for legitimacy. We expand scholarship on argumentation by clarifying social entrepreneurs’ efforts to pursue adherence facing competing demands and reinforcing their willingness and ability to engage with social impact assessment. We advance the understanding of social impact assessment in social entrepreneurship across three areas: tensions, accountability and performance and extend Nicholls’ general theory by explaining what precedes the discursive space where the assessment of social impact reconciles facticity and validity to establish materiality.

ИНДИКАТОРЫ СОСТОЯНИЯ ПРОДОВОЛЬСТВЕННОГО ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ И УРОВНЯ ЖИЗНИ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ ДАЛЬНЕВОСТОЧНОГО ФЕДЕРАЛЬНОГО ОКРУГА

In developed countries of the world, human capital is recognized as the main most valuable resource, which is the principal factor in the development of any territory. The life and health of people is the most important asset of any nation. The population of Russia has been steadily decreasing in recent decades due to natural and migration decline. In the Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD), the demographic situation is especially acute: over the last three decades, the population has decreased by 22,3 %. The main reason is the rapid decline in the standard of living of the population. In turn, the demographic situation is significantly influenced by housing conditions, the level of food supply and the quality of nutrition. The population of the Far Eastern regions eats irrationally: people compensate for the energy and nutrients not received in protein foods and vegetable and melon products by excessive consumption of baked goods, pasta and cereals. This diet contributes to an increase in morbidity and a reduction in life expectancy. These problems are especially acute in regions with high poverty, low living standards and low social productivity. The most problematic in terms of the standard of living of the population are the Jewish Autonomous Region, the Trans-Baikal Region and the Republic of Buryatia: the median per capita cash income of residents of these regions allows them to buy no more than 4 minimum sets of food per month (in Russia as a whole – 5,7 sets), housing conditions are the worst in the Far Eastern Federal District. To improve the quality of food supply and living standards of the population in the regions, it was proposed to strengthen the social responsibility of the state and take comprehensive measures to increase real cash incomes; development of social entrepreneurship and social partnership; restoration and development of production in the regions of necessary products - milk, eggs, melons and vegetables. This will require significant investment in the rural economy of the Far Eastern regions to ensure growth in production volumes and development of human capital.

Social Entrepreneurship: Toward Understanding an Emerging Force for the Common Good

Social entrepreneurship combines business innovation with an explicit purpose of positive social and environmental impact, becoming increasingly relevant for analysis from various perspectives. This article presents a systematic review of the literature on social entrepreneurship, aiming to consolidate existing knowledge, identify emerging trends and gaps, and provide an updated guide for researchers and policymakers. The results reveal diverse methodological perspectives, ranging from quantitative research on economic impact and poverty reduction to ethnographies that explore the experiences and strategies of social entrepreneurs. The unique potential of social entrepreneurship to address global challenges is highlighted, necessitating comprehensive strategies to promote it sustainably. Furthermore, education is identified as a fundamental pillar of positive social change due to its role in developing professionals with an entrepreneurial mindset oriented toward social transformation. Finally, the paper emphasizes the need to diversify research lines and initiatives that encourage social impact entrepreneurship in a proactive and innovative manner. Received: 3 January 2024 / Accepted: 25 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

Doing good while making profits: A typology of business models for social ventures

AbstractResearch SummaryBuilding on business model research and the social entrepreneurship literature, we conceptually develop a set of business model choices for social ventures. These choices specify the scope of venture beneficiaries, the extent that customers and beneficiaries overlap, and how social meaning is attached to the venture's value proposition. Concurrent configurations of these choices give rise to four types of social business models: (1) Social Stimulators, (2) Social Providers, (3) Social Producers, and (4) Social Intermediaries. We illustrate this typology using data from seven social ventures and formulate propositions about the implications these business model choices have for a venture's value creation and value capture potential. We then discuss contributions to the literature on social ventures and social entrepreneurship, and the literature on business models.Managerial SummaryIn this article, we propose a framework outlining key business model choices for social ventures. These choices include the scope of target beneficiaries of the venture, the degree of overlap between customers and beneficiaries, and how the venture communicates its social mission through its value proposition. By combining these choices in different ways, we identify four distinct types of social business models which we call Social Stimulators, Social Providers, Social Producers, and Social Intermediaries. To bring this framework to life, we have examined data from seven real‐world social ventures, offering concrete examples to illustrate each type. For each of these four types of social business models, we have also formulated propositions about how the business model choices impact a venture's value creation and value capture potential.

Social Entrepreneurship And Sustainable Development Goals: Aligning Business With Social Objectives

Social Entrepreneurship And Sustainable Development Goals: Aligning Business With Social Objectives

The Dynamics of Social Entrepreneurship in Tunisia after the Revolution of 14 January 2011: The Elements of the Concept, the Elements of the Context and the Elements of Implementation

Social entrepreneurship has emerged since the 1980s in both the United States and Europe to address the social, ecological, and environmental problems that have destabilised existing economic systems around the world. Since the end of the 1990s, scientific production has been proliferating on this subject, but there is no consensus and a unifying paradigm as to the definition of the concept. This is due to the distinctions in the conception and practice of social entrepreneurship in different contexts, especially in Europe and the United States. Reflecting and practicing social entrepreneurship thus remains subject to the specificities of the geographical context. This work is in line with this perspective, as we seek to understand the characteristics of social entrepreneurship in Tunisia by positioning ourselves in relation to three components: the elements of context, the elements of concept, and the elements of implementation. This work is exploratory, and we adopt a qualitative approach through semi-directive interviews addressed to the actors of the Tunisian ecosystem as well as to social enterprises belonging to several sectors.

Digital Transformation in Social Entrepreneurship: Driving Sustainable Economic Development in Rural Areas

Digital Transformation in Social Entrepreneurship: Driving Sustainable Economic Development in Rural Areas

The Role of Business Education in Promoting Social Entrepreneurship and Poverty Alleviation in Low-Income Communities

The Role of Business Education in Promoting Social Entrepreneurship and Poverty Alleviation in Low-Income Communities

Creative social entrepreneuring as a vehicle for creative emancipation

The purpose of this paper is to explore the praxis of creative social entrepreneuring as a vehicle for creative emancipation. The main research question asks how the knowledge and practice of entrepreneuring intersects with creative practice, process, and production in the development of a creative social enterprise. This study contributes to entrepreneurship and creative industries literature highlighting the actions of entrepreneurship in connection with concepts of emancipation and empowerment. Additionally, this paper contributes knowledge about the impact of entrepreneurial activities within the context of the creative economy. The study takes a deep-context autoethnographic approach towards the praxis of entrepreneuring by a creative social entrepreneur. Research using an autoethnographic approach of an individual creative social entrepreneur contributes to creative and cultural entrepreneurship research by illuminating the unique challenges and opportunities they face as they navigate entrepreneurship dynamics within the creative economy and uncover the factors that contribute to social innovation. This study aims to illuminate the practices of entrepreneuring that create sustainable opportunities for creative emancipation. This paper addresses calls for contextually embedded studies on entrepreneurship in the creative economy. Ultimately, this paper serves as a catalyst for transdisciplinary studies in the areas of entrepreneurship and the creative economy.

Impact Of Skill Development Programmes On Social Entrepreneurship Attitude: A Study Among Self-Help Groups Women Beneficiaries.

Impact Of Skill Development Programmes On Social Entrepreneurship Attitude: A Study Among Self-Help Groups Women Beneficiaries.

Pengaruh Empati dan Dukungan Sosial Terhadap Intensi Berwirausaha Sosial Dimoderasi Oleh Pendidikan Kewirausahaan

Social entrepreneurship is an important and interesting thing to discuss because there are still few studies in the field of entrepreneurship that discuss social entrepreneurship. This study aims to determine how the influence of empathy and social support on social entrepreneurial intentions moderated by entrepreneurship education variables. This research is a quantitative study using survey method with the research population is Diploma and Strata-1 students of Sebelas Maret University. The sample set as many as 271 samples and taken using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through a 1-5 point Likert scale online questionnaire distributed through google forms. Data analysis was carried out using Moderated Regression Analysis with SmartPLS software. The results prove that there is an influence of empathy and there is an influence of social support on the intention of social entrepreneurship. In addition, entrepreneurship education strengthens the relationship between empathy and the relationship between social support to social entrepreneurship intention.

Framework for Islamic social entrepreneurship

Purpose This study aims to develop a comprehensive framework for Islamic social entrepreneurship (ISE) by synthesizing Islamic principles and social entrepreneurship concepts, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Design/methodology/approach Using a systematic literature review, this study focuses on scholarly works published from 1992 to 2023, uses thematic analysis and engages with subject experts to craft a framework for ISE. Findings The study identified 39 sub-dimensions grouped into 13 core dimensions. These findings highlight the multifaceted impact on ISE, emphasizing its commitment to ethical, socially responsible practices and achieving lasting social impact through collaborative, innovative approaches guided by Islamic principles. Research limitations/implications Limitations include regional focus, lack of longitudinal data and absence of quantitative testing for the framework. Future research should expand scope, use quantitative analysis and explore gender dynamics, policy implications and standardized impact metrics to enhance the framework’s robustness. Practical implications The study’s comprehensive framework aids ISE practitioners in aligning their ventures with Islamic ethics and social impact. As interest in ISE grows, particularly in Muslim-majority contexts, this research facilitates the integration of Islamic values into social entrepreneurship, addressing pressing societal challenges. Originality/value This study contributes to the field of ISE by proposing a meticulously crafted framework that synthesizes Islamic principles and social entrepreneurship concepts. It stands out as a unique endeavor that bridges the gap between theory and practice in ISE, offering practical guidance while enriching the scholarly discourse on the subject.

How digital inclusive finance promotes social entrepreneurship: Evidence from 282 cities in China

Social entrepreneurship (SE) plays a positive role in addressing a range of social issues, and thus it is essential to study how to promote SE. Using panel data from 282 Chinese cities from 2011 to 2021, this study explores the mechanism through which digital inclusive finance affects SE. The results indicate that digital inclusive finance has a positive impact on SE, which still holds after considering endogeneity and undergoing a series of robustness tests. In addition, mechanism analysis shows that digital inclusive finance affects SE by alleviating financing constraints and promoting common prosperity. Furthermore, the effect of digital inclusive finance is stronger in cities with a strong Buddhist culture and more judicially civilized. Policy recommendations are also proposed.

Does Social Entrepreneurship Be Applied To Religious Organizations?

Does Social Entrepreneurship Be Applied To Religious Organizations?

The sustainability and social entrepreneurship fellowship: transdisciplinary and multicultural problem-based engineering education

AbstractThe nine-week Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship Fellowship at the University of Waterloo addressed urban habitation sustainability in London, Ontario, via a multicultural, trans-disciplinary approach. Undergraduate engineering students addressed housing and transportation environmental and social sustainability, guided by expert lectures and fieldwork. The program highlights the importance of diversity in engineering education and the need for structured cultural and educational management. Students proposed engineering solutions to sustainably improve the housing development process.

Township entrepreneurship, Unemployment and Economic Development: Myth or Reality in Sub-Saharan African Countries

This study aims to perform a comparative analysis of the influence of township entrepreneurship on unemployment and economic development among the Francophone and Anglophone countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The study employed a descriptive and quantitative research design where a longitudinal data was sourced from the World Development Indicators (WDI) and World Bank Entrepreneurship databases on 12 and 9 Francophone and Anglophone countries respectively. A Fixed Effect panel regression model was employed to attain the objectives of the study. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant negative effect of township entrepreneurship on unemployment; and also, township entrepreneurship has a positive significant effect on economic development. Both relationships were found to have insignificant differences between Anglophone and Francophone countries suggesting that the ability of township entrepreneurship to minimize the rate of unemployment and boost economic development is generic and irrespective of cultural and social differences. This study was anchored on the behavioral theory of social entrepreneurship to provide empirical contribution to existing literature.