Social entrepreneurship as a factor of sustainable development: analysis of best international practices

Abstract

This study examines the role of social entrepreneurship as a driver of sustainable development and explores best practices from around the world. Employing qualitative comparative analysis, case studies, and content analysis of scholarly publications and analytical reports, the research aims to identify the factors that contribute to the effectiveness and sustainability of social enterprises.

Cases from Europe, North America, and Asia were analyzed to highlight the key mechanisms underpinning successful social entrepreneurship. Findings indicate that sustainability is fostered through the integration of institutional support, hybrid financial models, technological adaptability, and active engagement of local communities.

The analysis of specific frameworks demonstrates that legal recognition of social cooperatives in Italy and Community Interest Companies in the United Kingdom, venture funding for social startups in the United States, and process standardization in social franchising in India represent effective strategies for scaling social entrepreneurial initiatives.

Keywords: social entrepreneurship, sustainable development, international best practices, institutional mechanisms, case studies, comparative analysis.