Social Enterprise

This textbook provides an in-depth exploration of social enterprise, discussing its terminology, evaluation methods, and the implications of commodification.

This textbook serves as a comprehensive introduction to the terminology associated with social enterprise, emphasizing the importance of rigor in measuring, evaluating, and holding these ventures accountable. Through a collection of insights from leading experts, it offers a compelling overview of contemporary thought in the field. The authors present a variety of validated evaluation measures, tools, and techniques, including ‘SROI’ and the ‘Outcomes Star’, all of which are utilized in individual research projects conducted by a diverse group of international scholars.

In recent years, the term social enterprise has gained significant traction, especially in discussions related to the public sector. The notion that entrepreneurial approaches could potentially alleviate financial pressures on public services has sparked interest and debate. This book delves into this dynamic, exploring how social enterprise can be effectively integrated into public initiatives while maintaining accountability and transparency.

Social Enterprise also challenges readers to consider the implications of commodifying social enterprise activities. By examining the potential drawbacks of this trend, the book encourages a critical reflection on the true essence of social entrepreneurship. The inclusion of a General Self-Efficacy scale further enhances the discussion, providing a unique perspective on the effectiveness and impact of social enterprises. Overall, this work offers a rich summary of current thinking and practices in the realm of social enterprise.