Exploring the role of universities in fostering social innovation and social entrepreneurship: a study of German social entrepreneurs

Purpose Universities are increasingly recognized as central facilitators and promoters of social innovation and social entrepreneurship. However, social entrepreneurs’ own perspectives on universities’ roles within the social innovation ecosystem have rarely been examined, and little is known about how social enterprises and universities interact during the start-up phase and beyond. This study aims to explore how social entrepreneurs experience the role of universities within the social innovation ecosystem, both during venture creation and in ongoing collaboration. Design/methodology/approach This study investigates how German social entrepreneurs perceive the role of universities within the social innovation ecosystem. Fifteen interviews with German social entrepreneurs were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings The findings indicate that universities can play a significant role in the social innovation ecosystem. They are considered particularly influential during the founding phase, especially for student entrepreneurs, but are often perceived as less active in later development stages. Nevertheless, many social entrepreneurs express a strong interest in sustained collaboration and identify several barriers to increased cooperation, including limited knowledge and the lack of specific contact points. Research limitations/implications This study shows that the role of universities evolves from that of a visible actor to a silent one as a social enterprise develops. This finding warrants further research, particularly in different national contexts. Practical implications This paper includes implications for university leadership, educators and policymakers for the development of sustained collaborations between universities and social enterprises in the founding phase and beyond. Originality/value This paper addresses a major research gap on universities’ role within the social innovation ecosystem using primary data from German social entrepreneurs.