Entrepreneurial orientation and social innovation practices in social enterprises: The rhetoric and reality

Social enterprises in UK are operating in a turbulent environment due to a combination of a changing policy context and economic recession which has limited the opportunities for growth for many. However, they have the opportunity to develop and provide social enterprises innovative and high quality services, albeit in direct competition with other potential providers. The study suggests that adoption of entrepreneurial orientation and social innovation practices including customer and service customisation provides the potential for sustainability and growth of social enterprises, potential often not realised. Based on a multi-facet longitudinal case study, data have been collected from focus groups with senior directors and trustees and the researchers’ participant observations. The research findings provide a clear understanding on the challenges that social entrepreneurs face and suggest the adoption of a market oriented strategy that may enhance their chances of securing contracts and overcoming challenges.