AbstractsEconomics

The tensions between business and society are increasing at the same time as Corporate Social Responsibility is being perceived more as a strategy to improve the image of a company than actually contributing to society. Therefore, it is important that organizations are provided with different ways and approaches in order to increase their societal contribution. The authors of this thesis have investigated the societal contributions made by organizations undertaking entrepreneurial activities. More specifically, this thesis examine how Corporate Social Entrepreneurship (CSE) can provide long-term societal contributions. The thesis consist of an intensive case study on Telge Tillväxt, which is a Corporate Social Entrepreneurial firm started by Telge Group in order to address the social issue of youth unemployment in Södertälje. Telge Tillväxt hire unemployed young adults in order to provide them with work experience and training. The authors conducted qualitative interviews with CEOs, supervisors and trainees at Telge Tillväxt and Telge Group and performed observations during one day at Telge Tillväxt. The study resulted in a proposed model for CSE derived from the empirical findings and entrepreneurship literature. Important contributions are the critical presence of a business and a social dimension that are required to be aligned in order for CSE to successfully provide long-term societal contribution. The underlying factors that affect these dimensions are also presented as well as the values generated through CSE. Additionally, new insights are presented in terms of challenges and opportunities that face a Corporate Social Entrepreneurial organization.