Exploring the evolution of a social innovation: a case study from India

Abstract

This article aims to develop insights into the innovation process in social entrepreneurship (henceforth, social innovation process). This research adopts a single case study approach analysing the case history of a social innovation from the initiation of a new idea right through to its scaling stage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with various actors involved in the social innovation: social entrepreneurs, employees, partners and beneficiaries. The interview data were supplemented with observations made during site visits and with secondary sources. Evidence from the case study suggests that the social innovation process is highly dynamic and iterative. Further, three temporal stages can be identified in the process: initiation, development and scaling.