International social entrepreneurs: exploratory research from four case studies

The social enterprise emerges as one of the innovative alternatives in the field of social entrepreneurship. This study explores cases of international social enterprises, something that is valued by researchers in the field, but which is a rare event even in global cases. Using a qualitative methodology, based on four case studies with in-depth interviews, the results contribute to the social enterprise literature by proposing a conceptual structure, the definition of international social entrepreneurs and the mapping of cases around the world. The article occupies a theoretical and practical gap in the field of social entrepreneurship and allows researchers to carry out their studies based on a clear theoretical definition. In addition, managers and entrepreneurs can have a systemic view of social entrepreneurial activities at a global level. Future research could expand the sample of international social entrepreneurs and develop scales for quantitative research.