An Exploratory Study on Motivational Factors to Start – Up Social Enterprises in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the motivational factors behind the social entrepreneurs to start-up social ventures in Sri Lanka. Motivational factors to start social enterprises is an undisclosed area in Sri Lankan context and the study contributes to generate new knowledge related to Sri Lankan social entrepreneurship setting. Inductive research approach is used for the study and data were collected from in-depth interviews and field observations. Multiple case study method was used to analyse qualitative data. The study found that social problems addressed by social entrepreneurs, educational and experiences, linkages and networks, social family background, religious conviction, personal characteristics and personal skills as motivational factors to start social enterprises. Findings suggest that government should play a vital role in creating favourable environment for social entrepreneurs through providing infrastructure facilities, encourage public – private partnership to attract donors and volunteers, and enhance social entrepreneurship education in universities, schools and other academic institutions to create social entrepreneurs. Knowledge generated by the study will be contributed to conduct empirical studies for future research and implications for policy makers.