SEDA/SEDA301/The Diverse Nature of Social Enterprise/Overview
In the last couple of Learning Pathways, we have introduced you to the theories of social entrepreneurship and social enterprise. Hopefully, by now you have a grasp upon how these concepts can be defined, and what factors have supported the growing prominence of social entrepreneurship. Now it is time to further develop your understanding by highlighting the diverse nature of the many social enterprises that exist across the globe, and the types of issues that they address. You might even be surprised at how many of these organisations you already have some knowledge about!
After reviewing the content and learning activities for this week, you should:
- Understand the different types of motivations that drive socially entrepreneurial behaviour
- Understand the different types of operational models of social enterprise that exist
- Be able to name some social enterprises that operate in different regions of the world
Social entrepreneurs are often perceived to be 'heroes', as their deep passion and socially focused actions make them strong forces of influence and change in their communities. Understanding the factors that motivate social entrepreneurs to establish their own social enterprise has been a popular focus within social entrepreneurship research. Studies have found that social entrepreneurs are motivated by the need for personal fulfilment, altruistic ambitions, the desire to create something, having a connection with a specific place, as well as public acknowledgement (Boluk & Mottiar 2014; Germak & Robinson 2013).
At a broader level, motivations of social enterprises have also been examined, have been found to be grouped into three different categories. Lecture 5 examines these motivations in greater depth, and provides some examples of how some better known social enterprises fit into these different categories. We also look at the different ways in which social enterprises support their beneficiaries through flows of goods/services, and how they connect with the market.
Lecture 5 - Slides: Diverse forms of Social Entrepreneurship
- Online Resources: The Social Enterprise typology
The following interview is with the owner of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Greg Irons. Sophie interviewed Greg to gain insight into the operation of an environmentally oriented social enterprise. Bonorong provides sanctuary for a wide range of Australian native wildlife - from Tasmanian devils, to koalas, kangaroos and wombats, as well as a wide range of animals in between. Greg is a very engaging speaker, and there were many laughs whilst recording this video. We're sure you'll enjoy watching this! Visit bonorong for more information.
Let us know what you thought of our Social Enterprise case study. Feel free to comment below.
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