On the Frontiers: The Implications of Social Entrepreneurship for International Entrepreneurship

Abstract

We explore how social entrepreneurship (SE) research extends the field of international entrepreneurship (IE) to affect global sustainable well–being. Well–being is a multidimensional concept that includes financial, social, and environmental wealth creation. Much of IE research thus far has been based primarily on assumptions of economic opportunity recognition, evaluation, and exploitation. We use the SE perspectives of blended value and international governance to revise the definition, assumptions, and boundaries of IE at the firm and international policy levels. We propose a broader vision for the IE field based on an expanded set of assumptions beyond traditional economic thinking.