A conceptual model for social entrepreneurship directed toward social impact on society

Abstract

Purpose

The emerging literature on social entrepreneurship and its role in economic development and social value creation is riddled with inconsistencies, overlapping definitions, and contradictions. However, the theoretical and practical importance of developing and applying social entrepreneurship to sustain social development and enhance human well‐being in rapidly changing environments has catapulted this issue to the forefront of the research agendas of many scholars. In light of advancement, the purpose of this paper is to clarify the concept of social entrepreneurship. Further, a conceptual model is developed encompassing antecedents and consequence of social entrepreneurship in an integrated framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the work of others and to this adds personal conclusions from both direct experience and observation.

Findings

The central argument is that desirability and feasibility of social entrepreneur in the decision‐making process, human capital, and social capital at the individual level will have the positive effects on social entrepreneurship. The author also discusses the moderation effects between the desirability and feasibility of social entrepreneur in the decision‐making process on initiating social entrepreneurship activities. Moreover, it is argued that social and institutional environment factors also promote social entrepreneurship activities which push the social improvement.

Originality/value

The paper presents a theoretical research model incorporating antecedents and consequence of social entrepreneurship to direct a future research agenda. The paper could be used as the research model by researchers to empirically test antecedents and consequences of social entrepreneurship. Moreover, practitioners can also gain benefits from the conceptual framework and promote social entrepreneurship.

Citation

Jiao, H. (2011), "A conceptual model for social entrepreneurship directed toward social impact on society", Social Enterprise Journal, Vol. 7 No. 2, pp. 130-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/17508611111156600