Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation International Case Studies and Practice [Paperback]

Social innovators and social entrepreneurs look for creative and affordable solutions to specific societal problems.  Fueled by the spread of the internet and the ubiquity of cell phones, it is easier than ever before to attempt to solve pressing social and environmental problems in the world. Social Entrepreneurship and Innovationpresents the journeys of pioneering—and often accidental—social innovators who used their courage, tenacity, and creative thinking to find a solution to their problem.  The case studies do not gloss over the setbacks and dead ends these people faced; instead, they offer a realistic insight into the challenges and mindset needed to overcome them.  From bringing solar-powered lighting to Nigerian midwives, to using surplus food to reconnecting broken refugee families, each case draws out the lessons learned and provides guidance and advice for anyone inspired to take action of their own.

This important, timely book gives the reader an invaluable insight into the workings of the world of social entrepreneurship.  It is a must-read for students, practitioners, policy makers and anyone with a passing interest in how to work for the greater good.

The case studies in Ken's book show that we really can all learn from everyone, anywhere, and often it's the stories from countries or areas of expertise we don't know that draw us in the most.  But the common traits of belief in a vision, of using data to build evidence for that vision and of altruism and helping others, which drives these innovators far more than the motive to persuade a consumer to upgrade their gadget to the latest model, make it a practical book you can apply to whatever your country or area of work might be.

Full of hope.  A book that will inspire.

Ken Banksis the founder of kiwanja.net and the creator of FrontlineSMS, a text messaging platform that helps drive socilsˆ