Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents an in-depth exploration of the development of a sustainable business model tailored specifically for a social enterprise. The study delves into the evolving landscape of social entrepreneurship, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by organizations seeking to combine social impact with financial sustainability. The research investigates the crucial elements that contribute to the success of a sustainable business model in the context of social enterprises, aiming to provide valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and academics in the field. Chapter One sets the groundwork for the study, starting with an Introduction (1.1) that outlines the significance of the research topic. The Background of the Study (1.2) provides a comprehensive overview of social entrepreneurship and the increasing importance of sustainable business models in this sector. The Problem Statement (1.3) highlights the gaps and challenges in existing business models for social enterprises, leading to the formulation of the research objectives (1.4) to address these issues. The chapter also discusses the limitations (1.5) and scope (1.6) of the study, along with the significance (1.7) and structure (1.8) of the thesis. Furthermore, the Definition of Terms (1.9) clarifies key concepts and terms used throughout the research. Chapter Two consists of a detailed Literature Review that synthesizes existing knowledge on sustainable business models in social enterprises. The chapter covers ten key aspects, including theoretical frameworks, best practices, case studies, and emerging trends in the field. The review critically analyzes the literature to identify gaps and opportunities for further exploration. Chapter Three outlines the Research Methodology employed in this study. The methodology section encompasses eight key components, such as research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter elucidates the rationale behind the chosen methodology and explains how it aligns with the research objectives. Chapter Four presents the Discussion of Findings, where the results of the study are analyzed in detail. The chapter examines the key elements identified for developing a sustainable business model for social enterprises, drawing insights from empirical data and theoretical frameworks. The discussion critically evaluates the implications of the findings and offers practical recommendations for social entrepreneurs and policymakers. Chapter Five serves as the Conclusion and Summary of the Thesis, providing a comprehensive overview of the research outcomes and their implications. The chapter summarizes the key findings, discusses their significance in the context of social entrepreneurship, and outlines potential avenues for future research in this area. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable business models for social enterprises, offering practical guidance for organizations striving to create lasting social impact while ensuring financial viability. The research underscores the importance of innovative approaches and strategic decision-making in developing successful business models that are both socially and economically sustainable.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Developing a Sustainable Business Model for a Social Enterprise" aims to explore the intricacies of creating a business model that promotes sustainability within the context of a social enterprise. Social enterprises operate with the dual goal of generating profit while also creating positive social or environmental impact. The project will begin with an introduction that highlights the importance of sustainable business models in the current economic and social landscape. This will be followed by a detailed background of the study, outlining the key concepts and theories related to social entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices. The problem statement will identify the gaps and challenges faced by social enterprises in developing sustainable business models. The objectives of the study will be clearly defined to provide a roadmap for the research process. Limitations and scope of the study will be discussed to delineate the boundaries within which the research will be conducted. The significance of the study will be emphasized to underscore the potential impact and contributions to the field of social entrepreneurship. The structure of the thesis will be outlined to provide a clear overview of the organization of the research work. Definitions of key terms will be provided to ensure clarity and consistency in the terminology used throughout the project. Chapter two will consist of a comprehensive literature review that delves into existing research and theories related to sustainable business models and social enterprises. This section will provide a theoretical foundation for the study and identify key trends and best practices in the field. Chapter three will focus on the research methodology, detailing the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques employed in the study. The chapter will also discuss the sampling strategy and ethical considerations in conducting the research. Chapter four will present the findings of the study, analyzing the data collected and discussing the implications for developing a sustainable business model for a social enterprise. This section will provide insights into the key factors influencing the success of such business models and offer recommendations for practitioners in the field. Chapter five will conclude the thesis by summarizing the key findings and contributions of the research. The conclusion will also highlight the practical implications of the study and suggest avenues for future research in the field of social entrepreneurship and sustainability. Overall, the research project "Developing a Sustainable Business Model for a Social Enterprise" seeks to deepen our understanding of how social enterprises can effectively integrate sustainability into their business models to achieve long-term success and positive impact on society and the environment.