A Conceptual Model for the Characterization of Entrepreneurial Orientation in Social Context

Abstract

Purpose of the study: In this article, we propose a conceptual model to characterize Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO), its Antecedents and Results in Social Business.

Methodology / approach: Thus, we used a descriptive and exploratory bibliographic study as a method.

Originality / Relevance: Currently there are few models for the characterization of EO in specific contexts, such as social. We sought to fill this gap in this article and proposed an EO conceptual model.

Main results: The main result is the proposal of a model structured in three pillars: the EO Antecedents and its four categories; the EO is composed of six dimensions, which are: innovativeness, proactivity, autonomy, risk assumption, competitive aggressiveness and networks, and its 22 categories; EO Results with four categories.

Theoretical / methodological contributions: In this research we contribute to the studies on EO, entrepreneurship and social business. The proposition of the conceptual model, along with consolidated literature, applied to social business, while contemplating a new dimension of EO – networks – and a new category to the results of EO - financial sustainability. Such a model can be useful for the development of empirical studies in social business, as well as can give insight regarding the development of EO in this context.

Social / management contributions: The model can be used by entrepreneurs and social business managers to analyze entrepreneurship in these organizations, and thereby provide potential directions for better development of entrepreneurial behavior at the organizational level. The model can also contribute to positive entrepreneurial management and an increase in organizational performance of social business.