In recent years, the need for social change has become increasingly apparent. From addressing systemic cultural perspectives that harm certain minorities or the genocidal ethnic cleansing of Uighurs in China, the need for innovative solutions to social problems has never been clearer.
Our hyperconnected, fast-moving and complex world demands fresh ideas, alternative approaches and new ways of doing things to shape a better future.
At the forefront of this movement are social entrepreneurs — individuals dedicated to crafting businesses that not only thrive economically but also substantially benefit society.
Social Entrepreneurship Definition
Entrepreneurs are people who have a business idea and build it from the ground up, and those who choose to focus on social issues are known as social entrepreneurs. At its core, social entrepreneurship involves developing and running businesses with the primary goal of solving social problems. Unlike traditional businesses that focus mainly on profit, social entrepreneurship companies engage in activities that foster positive change within communities, addressing root causes of societal issues rather than just the symptoms.
What is a Social Entrepreneur?
Social entrepreneurs are the changemakers who develop innovative initiatives and organizations that solve social, environmental, economic or political problems. What’s key is that these people are entrepreneurial, they see opportunities for change where others don’t, and they harness available resources to make things happen – with social impact at the center of their business model.
One of the first names you're likely to encounter when studying social entrepreneurs is Muhammad Yunus. Yunus has shared his knowledge and expertise through several books on social entrepreneurship. He also founded the Grameen Bank, which provides microcredit, non-collateralized loans to those in need to help them develop financial self-sufficiency. His work with the organization earned Yunus a Nobel Prize in 2006.
Social Entrepreneurship Examples
Social innovation efforts by organizations around the world have encouraged companies to find ways to become more socially conscious and to move past the façade of so-called “corporate responsibility” simply by checking off boxes on a list of what management thinks is important. In fact, Benefit Corporations (often called “B-Corps”) have emerged throughout the U.S. that place an equal emphasis on profit and social innovation. Microfinancing initiatives offer financial services to individuals who are typically excluded from traditional banking systems, enabling them to start or grow businesses and develop financial self-sufficiency.
Social Entrepreneurship Companies
King Arthur Flour is a B-Corp that is leveraging social innovation to benefit its stakeholders. King Arthur Flour has been providing high-quality baking staples to professionals and home cooks since 1790, from the first chocolate chip cookie to the first pizza sold in a NYC pizzeria. However, what makes King Arthur a truly remarkable company is their commitment to their employees.
In 1996, Frank and Brinna Sands, King Arthur’s owners, sold 100% of the company to its employees. The owners prioritized maintaining the family-centered work culture and felt that by selling it to their employees, it would “[bring] out the best in people.” The transaction was completed in 2004 and King Arthur became a founding member of the B-Corp community in 2007, solidifying “its commitment to all stakeholders: shareholders, business partners, the community and the environment.” Since selling the company to its employees, King Arthur Flour has experienced enormous growth, with annual sales topping $100 million.
Social Entrepreneurship Jobs and Education
For those intrigued by the idea of driving social change through business, numerous career paths and educational opportunities await. Social entrepreneurship jobs range from roles within non-profits and social enterprises to positions in companies aiming to integrate social goals into their business models. Other roles include:
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Positions within colleges and universities teaching others about social entrepreneurship and innovation
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Positions within companies that focus on social issues—these may include investment management, program directors, chief technology officers
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B-Corp company positions which offer an immediate view into opportunities for anyone seeking a position as a changemaker
How to Translate a Passion for Social Innovation to Real-World Action
Olivia Grégoire, the French minister for the social, solidarity and responsible economy points out that the success of companies and organizations “…will depend on their ability to provide relevant data and relevant evidence of their impact [on society],” she said. “Impact here is the magic word. We are living in an impact revolution.”
More than 100 businesses large and small have joined a new, online platform developed by the French government to help companies more clearly and transparently track their impact on society.
What the French government has done in creating this new initiative speaks to all who would wish to be game-changers. Whether a person sees her or himself as a changemaker, a social entrepreneur or an activist, looking into the work others have done can carry one directly into a position in social innovation. Consider these approaches to finding social innovation positions in leading companies.
Take the Next Step — Explore the Social Innovation Degree
An increasing number of institutions now offer social entrepreneurship master degrees. The Master of Arts in Social Innovation (MASI) degree at the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies equips students with the skills needed to design and lead initiatives that address social problems creatively and effectively.
Problem-solving through innovation is becoming a required skill across disciplines and industries. At the Kroc School, we recognize social innovation as a critical tool in tackling social challenges. We know that promoting peace means analyzing the root causes of social problems, and then creating and implementing solutions with professionally designed and managed programs. Our Master of Arts in Social Innovation (MASI) students graduate with the practical skills and experience in wielding innovation to lead impactful careers.
Human-centered design is at the heart of the MASI program. We believe effective solutions result from listening closely to, deeply understanding, and working with affected communities. We also believe that changemakers must know how to investigate and understand the underlying causes of social challenges, which is the first critical step toward problem-solving.
Right now is the perfect time to step into a role as a world changer, a social entrepreneur, an activist, an organizer or a changemaker. To get started, begin by exploring our guide: What is Social Innovation? A Guide for Activists, Changemakers and Innovators who want to Lead Social Change. Or, if you have immediate questions about the program or submitting an application, you can book a meeting with us today.
