Demystifying the Gateways to Social Entrepreneurship through Resource Dependence Perspective

Abstract

Extant literature elucidates that the social entrepreneurial process is quite different from commercial entrepreneurial process. This paper conceptually delineates the reasons for ‘entry’ and intentions for ‘exit’ of a social entrepreneurial venture. In serendipitous entry, social entrepreneurs a priori do not focus on resources availability, while in intentional entry resources play a crucial role. On the other hand, intentions for exit a social entrepreneurial venture are dependent on resource scarcity, team cohesiveness, and alignment between entrepreneurs’ goals and ventures growth strategies. The study presents a testable framework and propositions. Towards the end, it elucidates implications and presents scope which shapes the future research directions. Key Words: Social entrepreneurship; resource dependence; resources; entry; exit.