The Shifting Paradigm of Innovation and Social Enterprise in COVID-19 Times

A Perspective

Abstract

Different institutions, whether public, private or third sector, play a vital role in society. Institutions, in this respect, are the bedrock that shapes a society for the better. The recent coronavirus outbreak has tested society to the limit, and tested the ways in which different institutions respond to the pandemic. One aspect that has played a key role in the global health crisis is social enterprise. Social enterprise organizations are acting as crucial cornerstones in the state government activities in many countries across the world. These social enterprises are making real social impact in different government sectors, such as education, employment and public health. In this paper, the authors critically explore the great benefits of social enterprise during the current pandemic. By presenting qualitative evidence from a recent, funded social enterprise project, the authors argue for more intense support and usage of social enterprise organisations in community development.