Later-working-life social entrepreneurial identities : a dynamic self-categorisation framework

Abstract

PURPOSE : This study examines self-defined interpretations of age by later-working-life (LWL) social entrepreneurs and how these influence constructions of their social entrepreneurial identities (SEIs). DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : Adopting a social constructivist ontology and inductive, interpretive, theory elaboration qualitative methodology, a sample of 28 social entrepreneurs based in England were interviewed, data being analysed thematically using the Gioia method. FINDINGS : Using social identity theory and its linked self-categorisation lens, this study reveals three types of LWL social entrepreneurs. First, LWL Strategic Social Business Scalers embrace both social and business identities in support of their social mission. Second, LWL Social Value Creators identify with their social identity as making a difference to the local community, income generation being perceived as incompatible with their social mission. Finally, LWL Syncretic Social Entrepreneurs demonstrate shifting identities, evolving from purely social value creation to balancing hybridised social and commercial identities. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : This study reveals social entrepreneurs’ age has a positive role in forming LWL SEIs, associated experience, skills, knowledge and sense of urgency acting as a catalyst, facilitating rather than hindering social and economic participation. It contributes to the social entrepreneurship literature by advancing current theorisation of age’s role in constructing over-50s’ SEIs.