Business model for social enterprises: all years bibliometric analysis

Purpose This study analyses existing research on how business models connect with social enterprises. Through a bibliometric analysis, it highlights critical themes and identifies gaps, focusing on how business models can help achieve both social and economic goals. Design/methodology/approach The authors analysed 363 articles from Scopus and Web of Science using bibliometric techniques. In addition, the authors conducted a qualitative literature review based on bibliometric mapping using VOSviewer to uncover relationships between terms and map out the main themes within the topic. Findings The main findings reveal a network of current topics as they appear in publications, along with issues closely related to them, namely, business, strategic management, hybrid organisations, value creation and design. The results also highlight emerging topics related to design innovation, performance, community development and economy, management and scalability, entrepreneurial competency and a sustainable circular economy. Research limitations/implications This research is limited by the use of limited data sources and the limitations of literature data collection. Future research must provide broader empirical evidence on the application of various business models by social enterprises and the extent of their impact on the sustainability of business and society. The paper discusses limitations and boundary conditions. Practical implications The business model issues found in this study can be used by social enterprises as parameters for designing appropriate business models. Social implications By encouraging the development of innovative business models, this study supports social enterprises in creating meaningful social impact by balancing financial objectives with social benefits. Originality/value This study adds to the social enterprise literature by mapping key themes and research gaps. It also offers a theoretical foundation for future research on business models in the context of social enterprises.