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Social entrepreneurship on a crossroad: the case of Sunbird Straws

Pallavi Datta (School of Business and Management, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India)
Shailavi Modi (School of Business and Management, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India)
Yugantar Singh (School of Business and Management, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India)
Jain Mathew (School of Business and Management, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India)

Publication date: 10 January 2025

Abstract

Learning outcomes

The learning objectives are intended to stimulate the students’ comprehension of the various challenges faced by Indian social entrepreneurs. The case study offers a rich educational experience spanning diverse fields, including business operations, entrepreneurship, sustainable products, social innovation and financial planning. The case study on social entrepreneurship will guide students to comprehend its concept, significance, challenges and understand how businesses can be a force for positive social impact. The case study serves as a valuable tool for graduate students, helping them improve their critical thinking and solution-focused skills in preparation for their future entrepreneurial endeavors. Students should be able to analyze the case study, answer questions and evaluate the co-founder’s business expansion dilemma.

Case overview/synopsis

Social entrepreneurs are vital in tackling pressing societal issues, fostering innovation and creating lasting solutions for rural communities. However, their unique challenges often go unnoticed. This case study highlights the journey of Dr Saji Kurungatil Varghese, the co-founder of Sunbird Straws, an eco-friendly startup, and the complexities they faced while considering business expansion. The purpose of this case study is to provide insight into the world of social entrepreneurs and emphasize their importance and contribution on a wide scale.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS3: Entrepreneurship.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

Disclaimer. This case is written solely for educational purposes and is not intended to represent successful or unsuccessful managerial decision-making. The authors may have disguised names; financial and other recognizable information to protect confidentiality.

Citation

Datta, P., Modi, S., Singh, Y. and Mathew, J. (2025), "Social entrepreneurship on a crossroad: the case of Sunbird Straws", , Vol. 15 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/EEMCS-11-2023-0435

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited

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