Social Entrepreneurship And Sustainable Development (The Case Of Social Enterprises In Azerbaijan)

Abstract

In the last decades, social entrepreneurship phenomenon has been in the center of global attention. The social entrepreneurship theory is still in the conceptualization phase, as each country has individual specifics and approaches to define social entrepreneurship initiatives. Social entrepreneurship as business philosophy does not only include social, environmental, and economic efficiency but also with its effectiveness contribute to business sustainability. This thesis complements the lack of research work on the social entrepreneurship phenomenon by offering a conceptual framework and indicate social entrepreneurship, as an assistance mechanism for the government and applied to the solving social problems, can provide analysis framework to provide a response to the challenges of sustainable development. The main objective of the thesis is exploring the characteristics and backgrounds of social entrepreneurship phenomenon, particularly in relation to what are the entrepreneurial motivations for starting new social ventures from Azerbaijan’s perspective, especially its importance in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The study on social entrepreneurship phenomenon is still in its first stage. Therefore, it was essential to include new and valuable information to the existing literature on the topic. In order to fulfill the objective and attain the goal, there are a few main research questions defined: How to understand Social Entrepreneurship phenomenon and its realization in business? What do the concepts of the Sustainability and Sustainable Development mean in social entrepreneurship? How do social entrepreneurs use both business acumen and philanthropic principles to address social, cultural, and environmental challenges? How can Social Entrepreneurship contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? A qualitative research method was used to gather data through a semi-structured questionnaire to define the needs and learn the views of stakeholders concerning the impact of social enterprises on sustainable development. It was found that there is a high relation between social entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Social enterprises not only operate on a sustainable basis but also encourage others to get involved either. The thesis suggests that social innovation may change the structures and systems that create the conditions for poverty, and the development processes need to consider the link between social entrepreneurship and sustainable development. This research analyzes Azerbaijani social enterprises while looking at the phenomenon from a global standpoint.