Developing a Business Model for a Sustainable Social Enterprise: A Case Study Approach

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis addresses the imperative need to develop sustainable business models for social enterprises, focusing on a case study approach to analyze the practical implementation of such models. The study delves into the intricacies of balancing social impact with financial viability, aiming to provide insights and recommendations for aspiring social entrepreneurs and existing enterprises striving for sustainability. The introduction sets the stage by highlighting the growing interest in social entrepreneurship and the challenges faced in creating sustainable models that can effectively address societal issues. The background of the study explores the evolution of social enterprises and their unique position at the intersection of business and social impact. The problem statement underscores the critical gap between the altruistic goals of social enterprises and the harsh realities of financial sustainability, emphasizing the need for innovative business models. The objectives of the study are outlined to investigate successful strategies and identify key factors that contribute to sustainable social enterprises. Limitations of the study are acknowledged, including constraints related to the scope of research, access to data, and potential biases in the case study analysis. The scope of the study is defined to focus on a select number of social enterprises operating in diverse sectors to capture a comprehensive view of sustainable practices. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to the existing literature on social entrepreneurship and sustainable business models, offering practical insights and recommendations for practitioners, policymakers, and academics. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide readers through the various chapters and sections. Chapter two presents a comprehensive literature review that synthesizes existing knowledge on social entrepreneurship, sustainable business models, and relevant theoretical frameworks. Key themes such as social impact measurement, stakeholder engagement, and financial sustainability are explored in depth to provide a theoretical foundation for the study. Chapter three details the research methodology employed, including the case study approach, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. The chapter outlines the selection criteria for the case studies, data sources, and the process of data analysis to derive meaningful insights. Findings from the case studies are discussed in chapter four, highlighting successful strategies, challenges faced, and lessons learned by the social enterprises in developing sustainable business models. The chapter delves into specific examples, best practices, and areas for improvement based on the analysis of the case studies. Finally, chapter five presents the conclusion and summary of the thesis, synthesizing key findings, implications for practice and policy, and recommendations for future research. The thesis contributes to advancing knowledge in the field of social entrepreneurship and offers practical guidance for creating sustainable social enterprises that can drive positive impact in society.