Exploring the Potential of Social Value Creation Through Digital Social Innovation in Sri Lanka: Special Reference to Gampaha District

Abstract

Introduction: This research explores the potential of social value creation through digital social innovation in Sri Lanka, with a special focus on the Gampaha District. Social entrepreneurship, driven by a combination of entrepreneurial spirit and social innovation, aims to address pressing societal challenges and create innovative solutions. Despite the global attention to social entrepreneurship, there is a dearth of research in the Sri Lankan context, particularly regarding the role of technology in innovation and social value creation. Methodology: The study adopts a social constructivist paradigm and employs the Case Study Methodology (CSM) to investigate ten social enterprises. The research questions examined include how social value is created through social enterprises and how social entrepreneurs leverage new technologies for innovation. Findings: The findings reveal that social value creation in Sri Lanka occurs through economic impact, socioeconomic improvements, social impact, community engagement, and innovative solutions. Moreover, the importance of managing new technologies for innovation is evident, with technology adoption, innovation strategies, skills development, and resource constraints emerging as key factors. Conclusion: This research contributes to the understanding of how social enterprises in Sri Lanka create social value and harness technology for innovation. The findings highlight the need for more support for social entrepreneurs and the integration of digital technologies in their endeavours. The study emphasizes the role of social entrepreneurship in driving positive change and creating social value in Sri Lanka, and the potential for technology to amplify this impact.