IS ENTREPRENEURSHIP ALL THE SAME? PARTICULARITIES OF THE LIFE CYCLE IN SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Abstract

Social enterprises are those that seek to solve social or environmental problems through a business that has the dual mission of generating a positive impact on society while being financially sustainable. Therefore, social enterprises differ from traditional businesses and go through different phases in their life cycle. Thus, this study seeks to analyze the phases of the life cycle of a social enterprise. To this end, exploratory research of a qualitative nature was conducted with data collected through interviews with experts who are members of organizations that drive impact and also with social entrepreneurs from various sectors. The results indicate that there are five phases in the life cycle of a social enterprise: ideation, validation, growth, and maturity. Each phase has its own characteristics that need to be succeeded in order to move on to the next phase, otherwise it will be necessary to make adjustments to the business model.