Relational governance processes in social entrepreneurship ecosystems: the role of social capital

Purpose Social entrepreneurship ecosystems (SEEs) are communities of varied yet interdependent actors collaborating to impact the environment for social entrepreneurs. To date, there is limited understanding of the processes that drive their functioning. The purpose of this paper is to address this limitation by explaining how SEE relational governance processes strengthen relationships among actors. Design/methodology/approach This conceptual paper uses narrative theorizing to integrate ecosystem research with social enterprise literature and proposes an SEE relational governance process. Grounded in social capital theory, the authors explain how networks, norms and trust enhance relationships within SEEs. Findings The authors identify how diverse ecosystem actors shape governance processes in SEEs: Socializing fosters collaboration within the network; Strategizing aligns objectives through shared norms; and Legitimizing reinforces trust via transparent communication. Research limitations/implications This paper advances the theoretical understanding of SEE by linking ecosystem governance with social enterprises and social capital theory. The process offers insights into the role of networks, norms and trust in shaping relational ecosystem governance. Practical implications By articulating SEE relational governance, the authors give ecosystem builders, policymakers and support intermediaries a concrete checklist: expand and broker ties; co-create objectives that match those ties; and signal progress through shared impact metrics and credible partnerships. Originality/value This paper advances SEE research by offering a process-oriented approach for SEE relational governance. The authors identify Socializing, Strategizing and Legitimizing as the three interconnected processes through which ecosystem actors connect, align objectives and build trust.