The Relational Foundations of Social Entrepreneurship: Community Capacity, Innovation, and Social Capital

Bahtiar Herman; Inna Mutmainna Cahyani Thahir; Mursalim Nohong

doi:10.61255/jeemba.v4i5.839

Authors

Bahtiar Herman Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidenreng Rappang, Indonesia
Inna Mutmainna Cahyani Thahir Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidenreng Rappang, Indonesia
Mursalim Nohong Universitas Hasanuddin, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61255/jeemba.v4i5.839

Keywords:

Community Empowerment, Social Innovation, Social Capital, Social Entrepreneurship, PLS-SEM

Abstract

Purpose – This study examines the relationships between Community Empowerment, Social Innovation, Social Capital, and Social Entrepreneurship, focusing on the mediating role of Social Capital in explaining how community capacity and innovative solutions contribute to social entrepreneurial activities.

Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 377 respondents involved in Indonesian social entrepreneurship initiatives, including founders/managers, operational members, and beneficiaries. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), including measurement assessment, bootstrapped mediation tests, predictive assessment, and robustness analysis across respondent roles.

Findings – Community Empowerment and Social Innovation positively influence Social Capital and Social Entrepreneurship, while Social Capital also positively influences Social Entrepreneurship. Social Capital significantly mediates both relationships, indicating complementary partial mediation. The model demonstrates positive predictive relevance, with measurement invariance supported across respondent roles and selected role-specific differences involving beneficiaries.

Originality/Value – This study clarifies the distinct roles of Community Empowerment as existing community capacity, Social Innovation as novelty in social solutions, Social Capital as relational resources, and Social Entrepreneurship as hybrid entrepreneurial enactment. It further positions Social Capital as a complementary relational mechanism that connects community capacity and innovation with social entrepreneurship.

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