This course provides a comprehensive overview of the intersection between social entrepreneurship and systems change, balancing critical and creative perspectives. The first part of the course introduces students to the social economy, systems thinking, and the history of social entrepreneurship, providing a foundation for understanding its role in tackling global issues such as the SDGs and wicked problems. The second part of the course takes an applied approach, exploring business models for social enterprises, sustainable practices, social impact measurement, and the enabling role of policy in different countries. Weekly case studies and guest speakers will provide real-world insights, helping students apply theoretical knowledge to contemporary challenges and opportunities in social entrepreneurship. Through these activities, students will develop knowledge and mindsets for fostering social innovation and systems change through social entrepreneurship at both local and global levels.
Topics covered:• Social Economy Overview: size, characteristics, networks• Systems Change: SDGs, Wicked problems, systems thinking• Social Entrepreneurship history and concepts• Social enterprise business models for a social economy• Building sustainable enterprises, social, financial, and environmental viability• Social impact beyond a charitable model• Partnership and collaboration in social enterprises• Enabling social entrepreneurship through policy• Developing a comprehensive solution ecosystem