Social Entrepreneurship Review (SER) (ISSN 2720-7277) is a peer-reviewed multi-disciplinary journal dedicated to serve as platform for academic debate on all issues relevant to social entrepreneurship including theoretical perspectives, cutting-edge research, and actionable solutions to identified problems of particular interest to policy makers, social entrepreneurs, managers, academics and researchers. Social Entrepreneurship Review publishes research results on social entrepreneurship from a range of scholarly perspectives based on different methodological settings: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. The paper’s special interest is in theory-inflected work and broader empirical studies with particular emphasis on Central and Eastern Europe and emerging or transitioning countries. Theoretical and review papers are also welcome as they provide new insights or valuable comments advancing our knowledge about social entrepreneurship. SER was previously published as Ekonomia Społeczna/Social Economy (ISSN: 2081-321X – print version; eISSN: 1898-7435 – online version) by the Małopolska School of Public Administration at the Krakow University of Economics. The journal has been published since 2007. From 2007 to 2008 it appeared quarterly, and since 2010 it has been issued semi-annually. Since 2021, the journal has continued under the title Social Entrepreneurship Review. ISSN: 2720-7277 – online version; DOI: 10.15678/SER. Publishing policy: Open Access, licence: cc-by 4.0. The journal is published on an open-access basis, allowing its resources to be used freely while respecting the authors' copyrights. Readers are obliged to follow the general rules of source referencing and citation, as they would with printed publications. The articles are published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0. By the end of 2022, SER was published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY-ND 4.0) License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0 Frequency: 2 issues per year (June, December) Access to archive issues is available for free via former website (In menu: All issues). Authors Guidelines (see: Submission section). Formerly published as Ekonomia Społeczna/Social Economy (ISSN: 2081-321X, eISSN: 1898-7435) between 2007 and 2020. Publisher: Krakow University of Economics
Activation of the elderly at the commune level
The multiannual "Senior +" program for 2015-2020 adopted by resolution No. 34 by The Council of Ministers on March 17, 2015 is a planning act that addresses the issue of activation of senior citizens. The subject of the study is primarily the presentation of the current legal status and jurisprudence on the implementation of tasks specified in this act. Considerations are conducted from the point of view of forms and ways of implementing tasks by the commune in the area of activating elderly people under the "Senior +" program and assessing the nature of these tasks. The article employs the theoretical and dogmatic method.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dorota Sylwestrzak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Role of environmental inquiry in evidence-based social welfare cases
The purpose of the study is to explain the role of environmental inquiry as source of legal evidence in the procedure of granting social welfare. Environmental inquiry has several functions to fulfill. It is an integral part of social work. In social welfare cases it serves the purpose to collect all necessary information and data on the applicant asking for social care benefits. Hence environmental inquiry is a specific evidence-based investigation, in which there is both penetration and confrontation with other pieces of evidence, such as statements of the parties, contents of official and sometimes private documents, testimonies of witnesses or also results of inspections in the place of stay of the person (family) seeking assistance or benefiting from social welfare. Because of its importance in the investigation, other steps in administrative procedures depend on this inquiry. The study refers to by legal acts, selected cases and doctrine views and presents the features of environmental inquiry, sometimes referred to as ‘the family inquiry’ as part of evidence-based investigation in social welfare cases.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alina Miruć https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Designated benefit for the satisfaction of basic needs as a form of preventing social isolation
The purpose of social service is to support the individual, and thus counteracting social isolation. Normative regulations in this regard are covered by the law of social service from the 12th of March 2004, which determines the types of benefits and the rules of impartment. One of those benefits is the designated benefit for basic needs. In the article, the ponderation has been done about if the designated benefit is a successful tool against social isolation. Thereupon, the normative regulations which determine the appropriation and form of this benefit have been analyzed and presented. This analysis concludes that the institution of the designated benefit for basic needs, which functions in the Polish legal system, could be perceived as an effective mechanism that counteracts social isolation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Katarzyna Małysa-Sulińska, Anna Kawecka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Legal forms of cooperation between local public administration and non-governmental organizations in counteracting social exclusion
Counteracting social exclusion, although it is not legally binding, is the subject of public administration agenda. The administration, acting for the benefit of individuals, as part of its rendering function, performs tasks which foundations lie in many legal acts, and which essence addresses social exclusion. As part of their statutory tasks, Polish NGOs operate in areas that fall within the sphere of social administration. Both of these activities are important from the point of view of the interest of individuals at risk or subject to social exclusion. In their areas of activity - administrative bodies and non-governmental organizations - are subject to different regulations. The focus of this paper is on those regulations which form the basis for effective cooperation and allow combining the potentials of both these sectors. It should be noted that in the system of administrative law there are many examples of regulations that provide the basis for cooperation between various legal forms.
Copyright (c) 2026 Agata Barczewska-Dziobek https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Social exclusion from the perspective of hierarchy competition theory
Social exclusion can be viewed as an example of depriving an individual of membership in an association or as a significant restriction of rights within a given hierarchy. In this context, social life in a given country can be analysed as not only competition between smaller hierarchies, but also as a hierarchy covering the entire public sphere. The purpose of the article is to indicate the possibility of using the hierarchy competition theory to analyse the issue of social exclusion, shown in different contexts. Social exclusion can also be illustrated by examples taken from various fields of human activity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Piotr Szreniawski https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Social economy and social exclusion - introductory remarks
Copyright (c) 2026 Irena Lipowicz, Magdalena Małecka-Łyszczek https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investment attractiveness of impact-focused startups
Background: Impact-focused businesses can offer unique competitive advantages. They increase operational efficiency and attract more investors. Research objectives: This study aims to estimate investment attractiveness of startups, using the SWOT methodology. Research design and methods: The study draws on case studies and SWOT analysis. The qualitative approach relies on WIPO reports and impact-focused startup databases. Fifteen case studies cover different industries and a wide range of economies. Results: The findings revealed that the framework of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for impact-focused startups depends on their operational pathways. Conclusions: The customer pathway’s strengths include the ability to address market needs directly and generate significant social impact. The employee pathway is strong thanks to improved workforce quality, diversity, and inclusion. The product/service pathway represents eco-friendly and socially responsible products with measurable impacts. The ecosystem pathway tackles global issues.
Copyright (c) 2025 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Land tenure and population exchange: Intermarginal disintegration in the Ormánság. Social Entrepreneurship Review
Background: The study explores the demographic and social challenges in peripheral rural regions shaped by a self-restrictive “one-child strategy” among the Reformed majority and the long-standing exclusion of Roma communities, leading to cumulative marginalization. Research objectives: The main objective of this study is to introduce the concept of intermarginal disintegration to elucidate how overlapping forms of social, ethnic, and demographic marginality exacerbate crises in peripheral regions. Research design and methods: The research is grounded in a qualitative approach combining content analysis of secondary sources, historical documents, and selected demographic indicators. The Socio-Ethnic Exclusion Index (SEK-index) was developed as a composite measure to integrate five dimensions of socio-ethnic exclusion. Results: The findings indicate that classical core-periphery models are insufficient to capture the complex and interrelated marginalization processes affecting the region. Conclusions: The proposed framework provides novel insights into the process of rural social restructuring. It offers analytical support for the development of more effective social and regional policies that are aimed at promoting long-term recovery in peripheral regions.
Institutional and territorial drivers of rural social enterprise ecosystems: Evidence from Finland
Background: This article investigates the interplay between institutional frameworks and territorial conditions in shaping the development of rural social enterprise (RSE) ecosystems in Finland. Research objectives: Drawing on comparative case analysis across three regions—Lapland, Satakunta, and Kainuu—the study identifies key configurations of governance structures, socio-economic conditions, and infrastructural dynamics that enable or constrain the emergence and sustainability of RSEs. Research design and methods: Through document analysis, expert interviews, and regional data, the research introduces the concept of "institutional–territorial fit" to explain the varied trajectories of ecosystem formation. Results: The findings show that successful RSE ecosystems are contingent on multi-level institutional coordination, place-based adaptability, and civic engagement. Conclusions: The article concludes with strategic recommendations for fostering resilient, inclusive, and territorially embedded social enterprise ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Event impact assessment and community-based tourism: The case of a Portuguese Music Festival MEOSudoeste
Background: As integral components of the event industry, music festivals significantly impact local communities and encompass social, cultural, economic, political, physical, and environmental dimensions. We may perceive this impact as either positive or negative. As event tourism continues to grow in importance, there is an increasing need for evaluation methodologies that promote sustainable development through more participatory approaches. Research objectives: This article examines how impact assessment methodologies, grounded in action research, can enhance community engagement and support the principles of Community-Based Tourism (CBT). Research design and methods: Drawing on evidence from research conducted on the MEO Sudoeste music festival in Odemira, Alentejo/Portugal, the study explored the potential of this notable event to foster community involvement, despite its limited adoption of the CBT paradigm. Results: The findings emphasize the importance of collaborative evaluation processes in balancing benefits and costs and supporting informed decision-making for large-scale tourism events. Conclusions: Collaborative evaluation contributes to improving the long-term sustainability of large-scale tourism events.
Community-driven food networks as vehicles of rural social innovation
Background: Rural communities in Cape Breton, Canada, face persistent challenges such as food insecurity, social isolation, and economic marginalization. Community-led food networks rooted in social economy values have emerged as innovative responses that provide dignified, culturally relevant access to food. This article’s novelty lies in its comparative, community-engaged analysis of an Indigenous and a non-Indigenous rural model, treating food networks as infrastructures of rural social innovation rather than charity. Research objectives: This study explored how community-driven food networks contribute to rural development and social innovation by fostering inclusion, empowerment, and resilience. Research design and methods: Using a qualitative case study approach, the research examined two food networks in rural Cape Breton through document analysis, community feedback, observation, and interviews with key stakeholders. Results: The findings reveal that integrated programming, i.e., combining food access, wellness, and employment initiatives, enhances social cohesion, local capacity, and community dignity. Conclusions: Community food networks exemplify how social economy initiatives can transform rural spaces into hubs of innovation and care.
Home or abroad? Following tourism choices in Hungary
Background: Continuing a research series started in 2020, the study analyzed the social and economic factors shaping tourism preferences, the application of motivation, and capital theories, with attention to the impact of COVID-19 and rising safety concerns. Research objectives: The aim was to identify and analyze the structural differences in travel behaviors and active tourism preferences between Hungarian tourists who primarily choose domestic destinations and those who prefer international travel. Research design and methods: The study involved an analysis of data from 533 respondents collected in 2024 via an online questionnaire by means of statistical tests investigating travel motivations, accommodation, activities, and demographics. Results: The findings reveal that domestic travelers typically opt for short, low-cost trips with partial board, prioritizing safety, simplicity, and familiarity. In contrast, international travelers favor longer stays, higher service standards, and full board, indicating higher discretionary income and a desire for status expression. Conclusions: The study underscores that travel preferences are not merely economic choices but are deeply embedded in social structures, cultural capital, and identity formation processes.
Exploring slow tourism in rural territories: Insights from the Alentejo Region in Portugal
Background: Slow tourism appeals to competent, independent travelers seeking meaningful and authentic experiences. This umbrella term encompasses responsible and sustainable tourism practices and holds a significant potential for the development of rural territories. Research objectives: The article offers a deep literature review that addresses slow tourism conceptualization and its importance for rural territories. I also aimed to verify whether accommodation business entrepreneurs in Alentejo (Portugal) engage in slow tourism in their website communication strategies. Research design and methods: A qualitative methodological approach was adopted based on a literature review. The empirical phase involved a systematic examination of the messages contained in communication slogans and commercial offerings on accommodation websites. Results: Although many companies do not explicitly identify as part of the slow tourism movement, their practices align with its principles. The latter promote authentic, relaxed, and immersive experiences linked to nature, local cuisine, culture, and sustainability. Conclusions: The results suggest that adopting the principles of slow tourism in rural territories provides visitors with authentic experiences and encourages the sustainable development of the Alentejo region.
Copyright (c) 2019 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The contribution of agritourism to social innovation and sustainable development in the rural areas of the Portuguese Beja region
Background: Nowadays, agritourism constitutes an alternative activity to traditional agriculture, fostering socioeconomic dynamics and promoting social innovation in rural territories. Research objectives: This study aimed to analyze the contribution of agritourism to social innovation and sustainable development in rural areas of the Beja region (Portugal). Research design and methods: Methodology followed a qualitative case study approach, involving eight microenterprises. The study involved the analysis of data collected through semi-structured interviews with the companies’ managers to validate a theoretical model based on two key propositions. These premises assume that agritourism businesses contribute to social innovation and the region’s sustainable development. Results: The results show a consensus on the environmental, economic, and social contributions of agritourism, while perceptions regarding social innovation revealed some variability. Nevertheless, the analysis validated the defined propositions. Conclusions: Findings suggest an overall positive effect of agritourism on the region, supporting its relevance as a driver of sustainable development and social innovation.
Agritourism, Social innovation, Sustainable development, Beja region
Income as a selected indicator of the social economy in human life
Background: Income constitutes a very important indicator in the social economy. The level and sources of income determine the level and quality of life of rural inhabitants. Research objectives: The research aimed to examine the impact of Poland’s accession to the European Union on changes in the income levels of households across basic socio-economic groups, as well as rural and urban residents, during the period 2004–2023. Research design and methods: An examination was conducted of the results of the household budgets conducted on an annual basis by the Statistics Poland (GUS) between 2004 and 2023. The determination of changes and income relationships was achieved by employing the index of variation, the coefficient of variation (Vi), and Spearman’s rank correlation. Results: There was a decrease in income disparities between farming families and non-farming families, which indicates a process of income convergence. A negative annual dynamic of changes in income was observed only in the case of farmers’ income. Farmers’ incomes also displayed the highest variability among the studied groups. Conclusions: Poland’s integration with the European Union (2004–2023) was a period in which factors favorable to the growth of agricultural incomes prevailed. Despite this improvement, families associated with agriculture displayed lower income levels, worse living conditions, and a higher risk of poverty and social exclusion compared to other socio-economic groups.
Country Housewives’ Associations as social economy entities and their areas of activity in Poland
Background: The aim of the article is to present the areas of activity of Country Housewives’ Associations in Poland and their role in local communities. The author will discuss this matter in the context of the Act of November 9, 2018 on Country Housewives' Associations. Research design and methods: The paper conducts a conceptual and theoretical analysis of the basic assumptions of social economy and entrepreneurship and of Country Housewives’ Associations as social economy entities, and reviewed the literature in this area. The study also involved the conduction of original survey research. Results: The research results indicate that Country Housewives’ Associations are active in various areas, including social, integration, and educational. In the course of their activities, they face many barriers. Members’ awareness of the social economy is at a low level. Conclusions: The activity of Country Housewives’ Associations as social economy entities in Poland plays an important role in local communities. The scope of the article encompasses only a fragment of the reflections, and scholars may supplement it with new data over time.
Just energy transition and business models: Seeking a strategic management tool for energy communities
Background: Energy communities (ECs) are emerging as key actors in the shift toward a low-carbon and inclusive energy system aligned with the principles of just energy transition (JET). However, conventional business model tools often fail to reflect ECs’ social missions, democratic governance, and environmental goals. Research objectives: This study aims to evaluate the suitability of existing business model frameworks for analyzing ECs and to identify the components necessary for models aligned with JET. Research design and methods: I conducted a qualitative literature review, examining sources to compare conventional and alternative business model frameworks based on criteria derived from JET principles. Results: The analysis found that classical frameworks, such as the business model canvas (BMC), are insufficient for ECs, while alternatives like the triple layered business model canvas (TLBMC), social enterprise model canvas (SEMC), and value mapping tool (VMT) better address ECs’ hybrid organizational logic. Conclusions: Business model innovation must integrate social, environmental, and participatory dimensions to support ECs in advancing a JET.
Exploring social entrepreneurship dynamics in sustainable tourism: A case study of Morocco’s Al Haouz Province
Background: Many now recognize social entrepreneurship as an effective strategy to address social and environmental challenges while promoting economic development. Research objectives: This study aims to examine the objectives, strategies, and outcomes of social entrepreneurs operating in the tourism sector in Al Haouz Province, Morocco. Research design and methods: The research employed a qualitative approach to explore various social enterprises engaged in sustainable tourism, including community-based tourism initiatives, eco-lodges, and fair-trade handicraft cooperatives. Results: Findings indicate that social entrepreneurs implement diverse strategies to enhance social inclusion and sustainability in tourism. Key approaches include community involvement, capacity building, cultural preservation, and ethical tourism practices. The study also identifies critical factors that influence the success of social entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism. Conclusions: The research highlights the importance of fostering an enabling environment for social entrepreneurship in tourism. Policy recommendations focus on the development of financial mechanisms, capacity-building programs, and regulatory frameworks to support social enterprises in this sector.
Social entrepreneurship development in collective-based initiatives: A qualitative study of African Burial Societies
Background: The Global North determines the agenda for most discussions between scholars and policymakers. Research objectives: The article investigates how studies featuring the African context can enhance social entrepreneurship theories. Research design and methods: Current theorization lacks clarity on initiatives that use for-profit ventures to create value only for their members and those that create value for the broader society. Although many scholars portray both of these initiatives as characteristic of social entrepreneurship, this article challenges that view through the venture matrix it develops. The study applies the matrix to a homogeneous case of 145 African burial societies. Results: The results of the study support the matrix. Using extant literature on social capital in collective-based initiatives (CBIs) and findings from a qualitative study of 13 burial societies that operate for-profit ventures, the article presents a model of social entrepreneurship development in CBIs and discusses its practical implications. Conclusions: Burial societies in Africa are changing, embracing social entrepreneurship and providing researchers with new lenses for their understanding.
Entrepreneurial learning process after a business failure
Background: Entrepreneurial research often overlooks failure as a catalyst for learning. Understanding how entrepreneurs recover from failure and apply their experiences to new ventures proves crucial for developing resilience. Research objectives: This study examines how micro-entrepreneurs who faced total business failure acquire new knowledge and adapt through entrepreneurial learning. Research design and methods: We conducted a qualitative exploratory study with five entrepreneurs who restarted businesses after bankruptcy. We collected data via semi-structured interviews and analyzed them using narrative-based content analysis. Results: Despite significant financial and emotional costs, entrepreneurs actively engaged in meaning-making and knowledge acquisition. Emotional processing and resilience-building enhanced their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Conclusions: Entrepreneurial learning plays a key role in business recovery. The findings emphasize the importance of meaning creation, knowledge development, and emotional adaptation in navigating failure and fostering long-term entrepreneurial success.
Sustainable entrepreneurship in Morocco: Driving competitiveness through CSR and circular economy
Background: The circular economy and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have increasingly gained importance as strategic approaches for fostering sustainable entrepreneurship and enhancing corporate competitiveness. Research objectives: This study aims to assess the impact of circular economy principles and CSR practices on the competitiveness of certified companies in Morocco. It explores how businesses integrate sustainability-driven strategies to improve performance. Research design and methods: The research followed a quantitative approach, using a structured questionnaire distributed among 77 managers from certified companies in Morocco. Data analysis involved SPSS and structural equation modelling (SmartPLS) to examine relationships between circular economy strategies, CSR practices, and corporate competitiveness. Results: The findings show a positive correlation between circular economy strategies, CSR implementation, and corporate competitiveness. Key factors influencing this relationship include waste reduction, resource optimization, eco-friendly production, and stakeholder engagement. Conclusions: The research underscores the necessity of fostering an enabling environment for sustainable entrepreneurship through regulatory frameworks and financial incentives.
Promoting gender equality through leveraging the Women, Business, and the Law index: A comparative analysis of high- and low-income countries
Background: Gender equality and the empowerment of women are imperative for inclusive and sustainable development. Despite the fact that the Women, Business, and the Law (WBL) Index provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating legal progress towards gender equality, there is a paucity of research on how key influencing factors vary across economic contexts. Research objectives: The present study aims to examine the influence of asset accessibility, workplace conditions, mobility rights, pay equality, entrepreneurial opportunities, and safety on WBL index scores in high- and low-income countries. The present analysis aims to address the research gap concerning the differential impact of these variables in diverse economic environments. Research design and methods: Multiple linear regression analysis was employed using data from countries classified by income level. The WBL index functioned as the dependent variable, with the influence of six predictor variables on gender equality outcomes being assessed. Results: The findings suggest that pay equality and mobility rights have a greater impact in low-income countries, while safety, workplace conditions, and entrepreneurial opportunities play a more significant role in high-income countries. These results emphasize the necessity of adapting gender equality policies to particular economic contexts. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of context-specific approaches to the promotion of gender equality. In low-income countries, efforts should be concentrated on the improvement of legal rights related to remuneration and mobility. In high-income countries, efforts should be concentrated on enhancing workplace conditions, improving safety, and fostering women's entrepreneurship. The study also identifies common areas for improvement across both contexts to support global gender equality initiatives.
Causes and effects of social exclusion in light of opinions of cooperative bank customers: The case of the Mazowieckie Province
Background: A novelty of the research lies in the research sample of Cooperative Bank customers on which we conducted the study. Research objectives: The article primarily aims to analyze the causes and effects of social exclusion opinions of cooperative bank customers from the highly diverse Mazowieckie province. A specific goal involves indicating the relationship between selected causes and effects of social exclusion and a chosen socio-demographic characteristic, namely, the municipality. Research design and methods: Using an interview questionnaire, we conducted the survey in September 2023 on a population of N=185 cooperative bank customers, with gender and age of the Mazowiecki province inhabitants as criteria for selection. We employed the quantitative survey according to a mixed-mode design procedure. The study followed ethical guidelines, and all participants gave informed consent. Results: Findings show that poverty, unemployment, and disability contribute to social exclusion. In turn, according to respondents, social exclusion results in pathological social phenomena that limit development and opportunities to function in society. Conclusions: The study presented the relationship between two causes of social exclusion – income level and place of residence – and the socio-demographic characteristic (municipality). Moreover, it analyzed the relationship between the limitation of development and the ability to function in society as a consequence of social exclusion and the socio-demographic characteristic (municipality). The analysis revealed statistically significant relationships between variables. We discussed the causes and effects of social exclusion indicated by respondents. We also applied descriptive statistics.
causes and effects of exclusion in the Mazowieckie province
Empowering change: Unleashing the potential of social enterprises through contextually relevant support mechanisms in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
Background: Innovative solutions are imperative in the face of escalating socio-economic and environmental challenges worldwide. Social entrepreneurship has served as a widely recognized, viable approach to these challenges. However, such initiatives often struggle due to insufficient support. Research objectives: This study investigates contextually relevant support mechanisms that could optimize the impact of social enterprises in addressing socio-economic and environmental issues within Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Research design and methods: Through focus group discussions with both practicing and aspiring social entrepreneurs, the study identifies 13 interconnected mechanisms that could bolster the growth and sustainability of social enterprises in the region. Results: The findings suggest that policy interventions should center on strengthening these support mechanisms, which may include financial incentives, capacity-building programs, regulatory reforms, and fostering collaborative networks among stakeholders. Conclusions: This study adds to the existing body of knowledge on social entrepreneurship by providing empirical evidence on the role of support mechanisms in enhancing the effectiveness of social enterprises. The results presented in the article draw from the lived experiences of social entrepreneurs within a resource-constrained and developmentally significant setting of the province. Thus, this article offers practical insights for policymakers and practitioners in the field, bridging the gap between theory and practice in social entrepreneurship.
NEET youth as an actor in the social economy: A legal perspective
Background: The legal framework does not extensively discuss the topic of NEET young people, and works dedicated to this issue in the context of the social economy remain rare. This may come as a surprise, given the assumption that the social economy specifically tackles exclusion in the labor market. Research objectives: Therefore, the text primarily aimed to establish whether the legal regulations on the social economy currently in force in Poland address this heterogeneous NEET phenomenon and, if so, to what extent. Research design and methods: The research primarily encompassed statutory material specific to the social economy in Poland. The authors used the dogmatic method. Results: The research determined that the law provides a basis for social economy entities to impact NEET youth, albeit to varying degrees, due to their diverse nature. Conclusions: The NEET group itself is also diverse, and the volitional sphere influences how one understands the law’s impact on NEETs. Although the research question received a clear answer, the analysis of regulations revealed a critical issue in legal studies: the absence of a legal definition of NEET youth.
American higher education at the crossroads: Between liberal arts and entrepreneurial education
Background: American higher education faces declining public trust, rising costs, and growing skepticism about its relevance to the job market. As artificial intelligence and globalization reshape societal and economic landscapes, universities must prepare students for complex, real-world challenges. Research objectives: Text This study investigates the role of entrepreneurial experiential learning in addressing these challenges by fostering critical skills, enhancing engagement, and cultivating entrepreneurial mindsets. Research design and methods: Using a practitioner self-study approach, the research analyzes two case studies—Education Entrepreneurship and Education Consulting courses at a large private university. Data sources include instructor observations, student feedback surveys, and reflective memos analyzed through thematic analysis. Results: The findings demonstrate that entrepreneurial experiential learning enhances students’ problem-solving, collaboration, and social impact assessment skills while preparing them for leadership in the social economy. Conclusions: Entrepreneurial experiential learning bridges theory and practice, equipping students with essential skills for navigating societal challenges and driving reform in higher education. By addressing the skills gap and prioritizing human-centered problem-solving, this model contributes to the ongoing evolution of universities as catalysts for social impact.
Copyright (c) 2024 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Education and cooperation for the development of thesocial economy. Initiatives undertaken at the University of the National Education Commission in Krakow
This article highlights the initiatives in social economy and social entrepreneurship undertaken by the University of the National Education Commission in Krakow. It explores activities related to education for the social economy, educational and research projects in this field, and the development of collaborations with the socio-economic environment, including partnerships with social economy entities.
Copyright (c) 2024 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Self-assessment of entrepreneurial potential and actual intentions to start a business Depending on the chosen field and language of study
Background: : This article aligns with contemporary approaches to defining entrepreneurship by examining not only its core essence but also the entrepreneurial potential, personality traits, and behavioral dynamics necessary to identify an individual as entrepreneurial. Research objectives: By examining the entrepreneurial landscape among students at the University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow (UITM), the article explores the connections between academic specialization, field of study, and entrepreneurial aspirations, focusing on both the potential and intention to initiate business ventures. Based on data from a survey of 1,526 students, representing 29.8% of UITM's total student population, the study offers a representative and comparable research sample encompassing various educational paths in both Polish and English programs. Results: The research findings reveal how students' entrepreneurial potential is distributed across various academic disciplines, emphasizing the correlations between their chosen field of study and entrepreneurial potential. Additionally, the article examines the relationships between the urge to start a business and factors such as employment status, language of study, and field of study. It also summarizes the impact of academic programs in specific specializations, as well as support mechanisms, on entrepreneurship development. Conclusions: The study validates two research hypotheses: first, that the chosen field of study affects entrepreneurial potential and the likelihood of starting a business; and second, that the language of study influences the intention to launch one's own business in the near future.
The practice of social responsibility at Polish universities: a study of current trends
Background: Multidimensionality, as well as the potential benefits of social responsibility of universities (SRU) described in the literature, prompts in-depth research into the actual implementation of this concept by universities. In Poland, it is only since 2017 that higher education institutions have started to declare the implementation of its principles. Research objectives: The aim of this article is to present the results of research concerning the practical implementation of the idea of social responsibility at Polish HEIs. The literature review was supplemented with empirical research based on the analysis and evaluation of information on SRU available on HEIs’ websites (random selection was used for this purpose). The research was conducted in the period July-September 2023. Research design and methods: A review of the literature on the subject was supplemented with empirical research. The research was based on the analysis and evaluation of information on SRU available on the websites of higher education institutions. It was conducted in the period July-September 2023, and a random selection of institutions that had signed the Declaration of Social Responsibility of Universities between 2017 and 2022 was evaluated. Results: The research resulted in a list of good practices, as well as recommendations for improvement measures for universities that have formally declared the implementation of SRU principles in practice. Conclusions: Higher education stakeholders (internal and external), especially management, have a decisive influence on the practical implementation of the SRU concept. It is their awareness and determination that determines whether social responsibility will be developed in a real and tangible way by all university partners.
Exploring the mindset of social entrepreneurs towards failure: Evidence from focus group interviews
Background: Failure is a common aspect of entrepreneurship due to high uncertainty. This study examines the specific context of social entrepreneurship, which combines profit goals with social missions. Research objectives: The primary objective is to understand social entrepreneurs’ mindsets towards failure. Research design and methods: The study employs focus group interviews (FGI) with social entrepreneurs, representatives from Social Economy Support Centres, and government delegates in three major Polish cities. Results: Findings reveal diverse perceptions of failure among social entrepreneurs. They view failure both as a setback and an opportunity for growth. The study identifies financial instability and mission drift as common failure factors, and highlights the profound emotional and social impacts of failure. Conclusions: Social entrepreneurs’ perception of failure is complex, influenced by their dual focus on financial sustainability and social impact. These insights can help develop better support mechanisms for social enterprises, promoting resilience and learning from failure.