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Winner of the USASBE 2024 Excellence in Scholarship Award

The De Gruyter Handbook of Social Entrepreneurship serves as a one-stop shop for nascent and established scholars and practitioners alike who seek to quickly gain a broad familiarity with the current state of research in social entrepreneurship.

Part 1 reviews and discusses the historical scholarly foundations of the field, followed by a more in-depth treatment of newer research, while Part 2 examines the broader ecosystem in which social entrepreneurship takes place. In Part 3, the handbook explores infrastructural considerations such as organizational culture, values, processes, business models and mindsets that affect social entrepreneurship. Finally, in Part 4 the handbook analyzes social entrepreneurship from the individual social entrepreneur?s perspective.

Faculty, research-oriented graduate students, think tanks, and government agencies who seek an overview of recent research in the field of social entrepreneurship will benefit from this essential addition to the literature. In addition, practicing social entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs in corporate settings, and non-governmental organizations interested in social entrepreneurship can use this handbook as a resource to inform their approaches to the development of social ventures, how they support social entrepreneurs, and the ways in which they can foster conditions to support a thriving social entrepreneurial ecosystem.

"The De Gruyter Handbook of Social Entrepreneurship is a vital resource for anyone involved in or aspiring to make a difference through the development and sustenance of vibrant social enterprises. This handbook offers an in-depth exploration of the innovative approaches and strategies that are shaping the future of social entrepreneurship. The authors, renowned experts in the field, provide a clear roadmap for navigating the complexities of social entrepreneurship, highlighting impactful research, framework conditions, and the social entrepreneurs themselves. Importantly and uniquely, this handbook delves deeply into the multifaceted infrastructure that supports mission-driven social ventures. Understanding this infrastructure is critical because the ecosystem surrounding social entrepreneurship is a complex and dynamic network that encompasses myriad stakeholders and resources, all of which play a critical role in the development and sustainability of social ventures. The frameworks, mechanisms, and networks discussed in this handbook are all key components of capacity building that enable social ventures to launch, scale, and sustain their impact. This handbook is not only an important academic resource but also a practical guide that inspires action and fosters a deep understanding of the role of social entrepreneurship in addressing global challenges." --Thomas G. Pittz, Ph.D., President & Board Chair of the United States Association of Small Business and Entrepreneurship; Associate Dean for International Programs and Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy at the University of Tampa; author of Scaling Social Innovation through Cross-Sector Social Partnerships

"Through decades of development and refinement, social entrepreneurship as a field of inquiry and practice has achieved widespread attention from policy makers, funders, researchers, and society at large. This new research handbook is a comprehensive and insightful resource for anyone passionate about solving the world?s most pressing challenges. The authors, drawn from across disciplines, deftly combine the most current research, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications, making this volume invaluable for both academics and practitioners. The authors' expertise and dedication shine through, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the complex landscape of social entrepreneurship. This handbook is a must-have for anyone looking to navigate and contribute to this dynamic field, and should be featured in university courses at all levels." --Matthew T.A. Nash, Director, Center for Social Innovation, Stanford Graduate School of Business

"A must-read for anyone interested in teaching a course in Social Entrepreneurship, creating a sustainable social venture, or just trying to understand the research landscape of social entrepreneurship. The authors provide up to date research findings that shed light on the key aspects of social entrepreneurship as well as strategies to support and encourage aspiring social entrepreneurs. The contributing authors are among the top minds in the field and their insights provide a fresh perspective in this evolving and expanding field of study. I wish this book was available when I developed my first Social Entrepreneurship course 20 years ago." --Anthony Mendes, Ph.D., Former President of the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE), and co-creator of the USASBE Teaching Certificate in Social Entrepreneurship

"Finally, a book that offers a clear and comprehensive guide for aspiring social entrepreneurs. As an educator and scholar-practitioner, I previously had to rely on multiple books and articles to cover the evolution of social entrepreneurship, the role of individual leaders, global and cultural intricacies, and practical applications for contemporary organizations. This handbook solves this problem by providing all the necessary information in one place, utilizing diverse voices from global contributors. It will be a required text for students in our social entrepreneurship program and will serve as an essential reference throughout their graduate studies." --Stephen Kirnon, Program Chair, Social Entrepreneurship and Change, Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Pepperdine University