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 – printed version, eISSN: 1898-7435 – online version) by Malopolska School of Public Administration, Krakow University of Economics. The journal has been published since 2007. From 2007 to 2008, it was published quarterly, and since 2010, it has been published semi-annually. 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
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.
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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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
Digitization of social welfare entities and its importance for the effective implementation of social services in the public management system
Background: For almost a decade, before the Covid-19 pandemic forcefully highlighted the importance of this area, the digital future of Europe had been the main focus of European Union politicians and senior officials. In February 2020, the European Commission published the communication “Shaping Europe’s Digital Future,” which outlines the European Union's digital transformation strategy. Research objectives: This article aims to identify the information and communication technology tools used by a public entity providing social services such as a Social Assistance Centre (SAC). The SAC is the basic organizational entity implementing social policy goals in the social welfare subsystem, functioning in every municipality in Poland. Research design and methods: The research method used in this article was a case study. Results: The implementation of digital tools into the OPS enabled the entity to identify problems in real time and respond to them faster, make more accurate decisions faster and more efficiently, and access a huge amount of data that improved the analyses carried out. Conclusions: The use of modern technologies in organizations providing social services contributes to a better use of available resources. In the broader perspective of city, regional, or national governance, the use of ICT provides new evidence for the design of community-based public policies and their adaptation to new realities, enables reforming the operation of public organizations, and increases the transparency of public sector activities.
information and communication technologies
Care farm as a chance for social services for the silver generation
Background: The article presents results of my research on the state of knowledge and people’s readiness to run a care farm. Research objectives: The article scrutinizes care farm as forms of providing social services in rural areas as well as preparing people and institutions to conduct this type of activity. The text stems from a fragment of own research commissioned by Poland’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in 2022. The study aimed to provide knowledge about the demand for advisory and training services for people running care farms in Poland and people planning to start this type of business. Research design and methods: I conducted the study using a survey. I prepared three survey questionnaires and addressed them to people running or intending to establish a care farm (78), Agricultural Advisory Centers (190), regional social policy centers, and social economy support centers (18). Apart from the groups indicated above, the study included local government units (social welfare centers, district family assistance centers, district labor office), Agricultural Advisory Centers in part relating to care farms, people engaged in activities other than agricultural (agritourism farm with the potential to run a care farm, horse riding and hippotherapy activities, family social welfare home), and a social enterprise. Results: The main results show the problem of an insufficient number of entities providing care services (61.1% of respondents). However, a care farm can successfully provide social services, including care services (94.4% of respondents), and 88.9% of respondents indicated their significant role in the deinstitutionalization of social services. Conclusions: Respondents expectations concern support in the form of training on topics related to the creation and operation of care farms, running and managing this type of institution, care services, and an elderly caretaker course. In turn, the advice should concern searching for financing sources and legal aspects of the care farms functioning – which is consistent with the support offered by Agricultural Advisory Centers – submitting offers in public procurement, and concluding contracts for the provision of services. Further barriers arise from the poor level of knowledge about care farms among more than half of the surveyed Regional Centers for Social Policy and Social Economy Support Centers as well as low or no knowledge of the GROWID project in this group of respondents.
Social protection in Poland compared to selected member states of the European Union
Background: Social policy is an essential element of action for every state. In order to assess the actions of states in this area, social protection should be looked at from a multi-criteria perspective. Thanks to this assessment, it is possible to compare the effectiveness of the social policies of the surveyed countries and weigh social policies in Poland against the ones of the surveyed EU member states. Research objectives: The paper aims at designing a measure to assess and compare social protection policies of the selected European countries, but in particular to juxtapose them against the social policies of Poland and develop a ranking of the studied countries. Moreover, the article also tries to find out if there is a relationship between public spendings on social protection and assessment of the social policies by citizens. Research design and methods: The research involved multidimensional comparative analysis and the TOPSIS method. The variables related to social protection were analysed and used to construct a synthetic measure for social protection assessment. Based on the obtained ratings, a comparative ranking of the EU member states was created. The examined Polish indicators were compared with the average of the studied EU countries. The analysis was carried out for 2015 and 2021. Results: A ranking of social protection scores has been drawn up for years 2015 and 2021, in which the first two places are taken by France and Luxembourg. Poland ranked 18th. There is a strong correlation between the assessment of the social situation and average equivalent net income per capita in PPS, as well as average expenditure on social protection in euros per capita. Conclusions: The countries that scored top positions in the ranking of social protection have higher GDP than others. Despite large transfers on social protection, Poland’s position in the ranking remained unchanged. It is justified to conduct further research on the assessment of social protection in order to identify an effective model of social protection policy.
Evaluating Evidence-Based Ecosystems-Based Adaptation for Food Security Assembly (EBAFOSA) and Nasarawa State University (NSUK) Initiatives: Decarbonization, Clean Cooking Energy Promotion, and Cassava Food Chain Entrepreneurship in Nigeria
Background: This article examines the enterprise-focused efforts of the Ecosystems-Based Adaptation for Food Security Assembly (EBAFOSA) and Nasarawa State University (NSUK) in decarbonizing the domestic energy sector, particularly in Nigeria, while drawing lessons applicable at the continental level. Aims: The study aimed to assess the impact of EBAFOSA and NSUK initiatives on decarbonization, focusing on the adoption of clean cooking energy and entrepreneurship within the cassava food chain, with a particular emphasis on household engagement and economic outcomes. Method(s): The research engaged up to 60 households in Nasarawa, Nigeria and evaluated the efficacy of interventions such as the displacement of charcoal with briquettes in cassava processing. Data collection involved assessing energy cost reductions, shifts in energy sources, and economic implications for local actors. Results: Findings indicate significant reductions in household energy costs (by 2–3 times) and a notable transition from charcoal to briquettes among garri processors, with approximately 36 processors (representing a conversion rate of about 65%) adopting this cleaner energy source. This shift led to a 46% reduction in fuel costs for these actors. Conclusions: The multifaceted issues faced by Africa’s decarbonization efforts serve as an opportunity to ignite innovation and foster significant change. Collaborations like NSUK and EBAFOSA and their innovative approaches to sustainable energy show the promise of scalable solutions.
Emerging Trendsin Social Entrepreneurship and Social Economy
Multiscalar Institutional Work of System-Building Sustainable Entrepreneurs in Transitioning Coal Regions: A Case of an Energy Cluster
Background: Social enterprise is a potential driver of sustainability at the community level in energy sector decarbonization. Research objectives: We ask how sustainable entrepreneurs’ embeddedness in the territorial and institutional contexts of a coal region in transition shapes their ability to exploit sustainable business opportunities, and how they can influence energy transition pathways. Research design and methods: We introduce the notion of system-building sustainable entrepreneurs, who develop breakthrough niche innovations. Our analytical framework employs a multilevel perspective and multiscalar analysis of institutional work is applied to the case study of an energy cluster. Results: We identified multiscalar institutional work of SBSEs operating in the niche, presenting the inhibiting and enabling factors at the regime and landscape levels. Although enabling factors created opportunities, they could only be exploited through institutional work. Conclusions: We identified three key factors shaping the ability of system-building sustainable entrepreneurs to exploit opportunities and shape transition pathways.
Decarbonization Efforts in Africa: Successes, Opportunities, and Challenges for Promoting the use of Renewable Energy by Social Economy
Background: While Africa contributes minimally to global warming, it remains disproportionately vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change, including reduced agricultural productivity and erratic rainfall patterns. In response, African governments and policymakers have devised strategies aimed at mitigating climate change effects and promoting renewable energy adoption, decarbonization, and sustainable development pathways. Research objectives: This article aims to explore the intersection of decarbonization and the social economy sector in Africa, particularly in promoting renewable energy utilization. It seeks to examine the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating decarbonization efforts within social economy frameworks on the continent. Research design and methods: The study employs a narrative methodology coupled with content analysis to investigate the dynamics of decarbonization within the context of the social economy in Africa. It assesses the existing initiatives, policies, and challenges related to promoting renewable energy adoption and decarbonization strategies. Results: The findings indicate that while there is a growing recognition of the importance of decarbonization and renewable energy in Africa’s social economy sector, challenges such as limited access to technology, funding, and infrastructure persist. Conclusions: Addressing these obstacles is crucial for advancing decarbonization and climate change mitigation efforts across the continent.
Decarbonization Obstacles in the Context of the Photovoltaic Market Development in Poland From the Social (Prosumers’) Perspective
Background: Decarbonization of economies is a key development priority of the European Union. As nonrenewable fuels prevail in Poland’s energy balance, the country has faced serious problems regarding priority implementation for many years. Research objectives: Given the said circumstances, the objective of this article is to identify obstacles to using renewable energy sources (solar energy) from the prosumers’ perspective. Research design and methods: During the research, I used the results of surveys conducted on a representative sample of 754 Polish prosumers. The results underwent an analysis based on descriptive statistics and nonparametric statistical tests, including Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The major obstacles to the development of photovoltaics in Poland from the prosumers’ perspective include financial difficulties, mainly the costs of photovoltaic system installation and insufficient state subsidies for such products. Conclusions: Hence, the state activities aimed at promoting decarbonization must consider extending the financial support for photovoltaics, simplifying the procedures to apply for RES funding, and stabilizing the conditions of transaction cost settlements on the photovoltaic market.
Measuring Social Economy in Public Statistics: Introduction to the Polish Experience
This article presents the objectives, scope, and evolution of the research on social economy conducted by the Research Centre for Social Economy at the Statistical Office in Krakow (Statistics Poland). It highlights the experience and achievements of public statistics in Poland in surveying social economy entities, including social enterprises.
Investigating the Phenomenon of Social Entrepreneurship
Background: Social entrepreneurship (SE) has been gaining ground in economy and politics since the 1980s, arousing scientific interest. But despite numerous studies, the field still lacks a standardized theory, inviting interpretations by other disciplines. Research objectives: We show that SE draws on two theories of economics – entrepreneurship and market failure – and clarify their suitability for explaining the field. Research design and methods: Our bibliometric analysis involved statistical methods to ascertain qualitative and quantitative shifts. We aimed to delineate the publication landscape and identify the emerging trends. Results: The article calls for a standardized theory and better integration of perspectives in SE research, underlining social value creation, long-term effects, and contextual influences. Conclusions: SE is a developing field without standardized frameworks, focusing on social rather than economic value. It underscores entrepreneurial qualities in addressing societal needs and advocates nuanced policies that support entrepreneurial processes and societal impact.
Social Enterprises in Poland in the Face of Recent Crises
Background: The research problem addressed in this study concerns the activities of social enterprises (SEs) within the framework of the social market economy (SME) in Poland during the crises triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Research objectives: The article aims to verify the hypothesis that SEs situated within the SME can mitigate the negative effects of crises by undertaking additional actions for recipients during the pandemic and Ukrainian refugees. Research design and methods: An interdisciplinary research model helped examine the stated problem. It synthesizes both the concepts of SME and SE. Moreover, part of the research was a nationwide quantitative study using the CAWI method supported by the CATI method and Dilman’s prompting method (mixed mode). Results: During the pandemic in Poland, 56% of SEs took additional actions for recipients, even though the situation worsened for 41% of them. During the war in Ukraine, 68% of SEs took action for refugees, while the situation worsened for 29% of SEs. Conclusions: Social enterprises experiencing the consequences of crises are also able to minimize their effects. Simultaneously, to an equal extent, they support environmental issues and sustainable development.
The Role of Empathy in Designing Social Innovation For Blind and Visually Impaired People in Public Transportation in Poland
Background: The design thinking method is one way of modern service and product design. It encompasses various stages but places particular empathy. Trying to understand the customer’s needs and “stepping into the shoes” of the product user is the key. Research objectives: The article aims to present the process of developing a social innovation using the design thinking method with particular empathy. It also indicates methods for supporting blind and visually impaired people in public communication and presents the developed social innovation as a case study. Research design and methods: The article presents a literature review on design thinking, empathy, and social innovation. The case study presents the process of creating a social innovation. Key research questions concern the impact of empathy in the process of creating a social innovation. The research component also included interviews with blind and visually impaired people and a bus driver. Results: We conducted a literature review was conducted. Based on it, we described the process of social innovation creation and the developed diagram. We presented the developed and tested innovation, as well as conclusions from the implementation and guidance for business practice. Conclusions: empathy plays a key role in the design of modern services and products.
Cooperation of third sector entities and business for the implementation of the circular economy
Background: The introduction of elements of the circular economy requires major structural changes in economies, the involvement of a wide range of actors, including primarily businesses. However, it is worth noting the importance of other organizations, including the so-called third sector. Research objectives: The purpose of this article is to introduce the issue of cooperation of business and the third sector entities for the development of the circular economy. Research design and methods: For the purpose of the research paper, the following research method was used: a classic literature review and case study. Results: Collaboration between business and third sector providers has enormous potential for development and innovation. Conclusions: In Polish conditions the benefits and possibilities of cooperation between business and the third sector are not properly appreciated, and they are connected with a huge potential for the entities themselves and the possibilities of implementing the circular economy.
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Overview of social attitudes and applications towards the use of crowdfunding in renewable energy
Background: Crowdfunding has become a popular method for raising funds for various projects, including those related to renewable energy sources. Research objectives: This paper aims to present crowdfunding and the social attitudes of the Poles towards its use in renewable energy sources. Research design and methods: The first section discusses the theoretical assumptions of crowdfunding and presents the possibilities of using this form of financing in the renewable energy sector in Poland and worldwide. The second section of the paper is devoted to presenting the results of my research on the attitudes of Polish society towards renewable energy sources and the use of crowdfunding in the energy transition in Poland and worldwide. The paper uses literature analysis, criticism, comparative analysis, desk research, and a survey method. Results: Crowdfunding is used extensively in various projects in the area of renewable energy sources. There is social support for this type of activity (especially in the age groups 18–29 and 30–44 years) and a growing awareness and openness to support initiatives in the area of renewable energy sources. Conclusions: Based on the analysis, it was concluded that crowdfunding allows local actors to optimize their share of the economic benefits of solar energy projects, including solar energy, and to participate in the energy transition at the same time.
Book review of Social entrepreneurship. A practical introduction by R. L. Weaver
<span class="TextRun SCXW231636295 BCX9" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; font-variant-ligatures: none !important; color: #000000; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman_EmbeddedFont', 'Times New Roman_MSFontService', serif;" xml:lang="EN-GB" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW231636295 BCX9" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent;" data-ccp-parastyle="ES tekst w tabeli" data-ccp-parastyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"08d98589-c52b-41f6-8230-7c8d1d3e2bcc|248","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"ES tekst w tabeli",201340122,"2",134234082,"true",134233614,"true",469778129,"EStekstwtabeli",335572020,"1",134224900,"false",201342447,"5",201342448,"1",469777841,"Times New Roman",469777842,"",469777843,"Calibri",469777844,"Times New Roman",469769226,"Times New Roman,Calibri",268442635,"20",335551547,"1045",335559731,"0",335559740,"240",201341983,"0",335559739,"0",335559738,"0",335551550,"1",335551620,"1",469778324,"ES tytuł tabeli"]}">Authored by Rasheda Weaver the book <span class="TextRun SCXW231636295 BCX9" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; font-variant-ligatures: none !important; color: #000000; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman_EmbeddedFont', 'Times New Roman_MSFontService', serif;" xml:lang="EN-GB" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB">Social entrepreneurship. A practical introduction <span class="TextRun SCXW231636295 BCX9" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; font-variant-ligatures: none !important; color: #000000; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman_EmbeddedFont', 'Times New Roman_MSFontService', serif;" xml:lang="EN-GB" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB">offers detailed information on designing, funding and launching a social enterprise. Weaver’s teaching, research, and professional experience centres on entrepreneurship, social enterprise, and social entrepreneurship as a tool for community development. She developed this book from her research on the social, legal, and economic attributes of a hundred and fifteen social enterprises in the United States and current research on social enterprise and social entrepreneurship worldwide. This book publicizes multiple aspects of social entrepreneurship unavailable in academic journals. It provides a realistic picture of launching, designing, and running a social enterprise. It is highly recommendable for aspiring social entrepreneurs as it shares information on resource acquisition, marketing techniques, and the sustenance of a social enterprise.<span class="EOP SCXW231636295 BCX9" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman_EmbeddedFont', 'Times New Roman_MSFontService', serif;" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559731":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":240,"335559740":240}">
Book review of The Social Economy Act. A Commentary edited by M. Małecka-Łyszczek and R. Mędrzycki
The aim of this review is to examine and reflect on the recently published Commentary to the Social Economy Act, edited by Magdalena Małecka-Łyszczek and Radosław Mędrzycki (2023). Not only is social economy an enormously important and still underappreciated topic, as stated below, but it is also too often addressed in isolation in its numerous institutions. The Commentary’s strength is its comprehensive examination of the fundamental components and principles of social economy. Its content goes beyond the scope of a standard commentary in that it helps the reader interpret the relevant theoretical concepts as well as general clauses and undefined terms; moreover, the authors demonstrate axiological consistency in their approach to the issues discussed. It is a text of high scholarly quality, written in clear and accessible language while maintaining a firm grasp of the subject matter. The book will be a valuable resource for theorists and practitioners alike, especially the interpretations of social economy processes, which the reviewer believes are overly complicated and, like the entire Act, do not represent a particularly high legislative standard. The publication is also of great practical significance as it reflects the changing perspective on anthropological pessimism that has afflicted regulations in this field for too long. The authors provide the necessary knowledge in a synthetic manner, but never at the expense of an in-depth theoretical background or an insightful analysis of practical experience. The cross-sectional coverage of the literature on the subject is particularly noteworthy, as the authors provide a representative overview of the doctrine, especially in the context of the European Union Member States.