SOCIAL IMPACT MEASUREMENT CHALLENGES: THE EFFECTS ON SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS’ ACTIVITIES IN TOWNSHIP COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA
Globally, social entrepreneurs are recognised for their contribution in addressing socio-economic challenges and measuring their social impact is considered very important. However, few or little studies have been conducted on the effects of social impact measurement challenges on social entrepreneurs’ activities. Hence, this study aimed to investigate and empirically test the effects of social impact measurement challenges on social entrepreneurs’ activities in South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) township communities. The study adopted a quantitative research approach, using a snowball sampling technique to select 90 social entrepreneurs from three township communities in the KZN Province. SPSS (27.0) version was used to analyse the data collected. Findings from the study indicated that the lack of social impact measurement affect SEs understanding the contribution of their activities, and the methods/techniques to use in addressing social problems. In addition, lack of social impact measurement affects the ability of SEs to identify other opportunities to solve social problems, and investors willingness to provide financial support for SE activities. The findings from this study contribute both to the existing body of knowledge, as well as social sector. The findings from this study will also assist SEs and other relevant stakeholders to better understand how social impact measurement can enhance social value creation in disadvantaged communities.
Social Entrepreneurship; Social Impact Measurement; Challenges; Townships; Kwazulu-Natal.