Scaling social entrepreneurship: an analysis of intermediaries’ approaches in facilitating demand-side driven replication

Abstract

Scaling social entrepreneurship is widely recognized as being vital to meet crucial goals for our society, yet current efforts are falling short and therefore different approaches need to be considered. Amongst the intermediary organizations that have recently started to support the scaling efforts of social entrepreneurs, there are some innovative organisations that are approaching the challenge differently by focusing on the effective demand side (clear problem definition and need) and helping social ventures to scale by matching that demand through replication of their solutions. However, little is known about their work, suggesting a need for further investigation into their practices and success factors. This thesis explores this emerging phenomenon through a literature review, background research on these intermediaries and an analysis of qualitative data from interviews with them. Findings suggest that these successful scaling intermediaries share commonalities in their approach of having a strong emphasis on problem definition and establishing ‘effective demand, connecting this successfully with proven supplyside solutions, whilst meanwhile finding ways to engage the right people to overcome initial cynicism and resistance to change in order to deliver systemic change. Results contribute to prior research on scaling and replication of social entrepreneurship by acknowledging the role of these scaling support intermediaries in the ecosystem and identifying best practices and approaches. Findings also highlight the importance of continuous learnings and suggest that enhanced sharing of process learnings and partnerships between intermediaries could unlock significant potential within the social entrepreneurship sector. The results of this thesis are therefore relevant for social entrepreneurs, intermediaries and funders in the social impact economy, and researchers in the field of social entrepreneurship as this shows an exciting opportunity for disruption with the potential to make significant impact.