MAPPING THE LANDSCAPE OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF EMERGING TRENDS, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

This study presents a systematic literature review of recent developments in social entrepreneurship, focusing on emerging trends, structural challenges, and future opportunities. Using a title-based search on the Emerald Insight database, we identified 15 peer-reviewed articles published between 2023 and 2025 that explicitly featured “social entrepreneurship” or “social entrepreneurs.” The analysis revealed three dominant themes: ecosystem and institutional support, sectoral expansion driven by sustainability and innovation, and behavioral and educational dynamics shaping social entrepreneurial actions. Despite growing academic attention, the field continues to face fragmented governance, funding limitations, and superficial stakeholder engagement. However, the increasing role of universities and the integration of digital platforms indicate promising directions. This review contributes by consolidating contemporary insights and offering a framework to guide future inquiry and policy in social entrepreneurship.