Social Entrepreneurship: A Practical Approach

Social Entrepreneurship: A Practical Introduction equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools needed to design and launch businesses to create positive social change in their communities. This accessible textbook aims to educate and motivate people interested in social entrepreneurship, showing that such businesses are a valuable part of the community development toolbox. Each chapter focuses on a key aspect of social entrepreneurship, from value creation and business planning to impact measurement and scaling up. Different social business models are presented, with analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. Cases and examples are included throughout the book and showcase real-life social enterprises in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Discussion questions also support reflection and learning. A downloadable workbook offers support with checklists, social impact measurement, and other areas. An instructor manual containing test questions and experiential exercises is also available as a digital supplement for adopters. This book is ideal for introductory courses in social entrepreneurship and community development. It will also be valuable for those involved in social enterprises on the ground.

Rasheda L. Weaver is Assistant Professor at the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Iona College, USA. Her expertise lies in the use of social enterprise and entrepreneurship as a tool for community economic development. She founded Weaver’s Social Enterprise Directory, a public directory for social enterprises in the USA.