Title: Exploring the role of social innovation in developing sustainopreneurship: a new approach to managing the triple bottom line in Sri Lanka

Authors: Jami Perera; Ruwan Abeysekera

Addresses: Department of Management Sciences, Faculty of Management, Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka ' Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce & Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract: This study investigates the role of social innovations in developing sustainopreneurship in Sri Lanka: a new approach to managing the triple bottom line (TBL). Data were gathered through 15 sustainopreneurs in-depth interviews, and the multiple case study method was used. The findings of the study reveal that sustainopreneurs' affiliation to nature, competition, and government restrictions, sustainopreneurs' exotic exposure and their attitudes towards being responsible to the planet motivates them to do social innovations and sustainopreneurship. Further, the findings disclose several barriers in developing social innovations and sustainopreneurship. As there has been a dearth of studies directed in the area this study contributes to the social innovations and sustainopreneurship literature in many aspects. The recommendations support and give beneficial information to practitioners and policymakers who could help inform future strategies in the arena.

Keywords: barriers; developing; entrepreneurship; multiple case study; in-depth interviews; Sri Lanka; sustainopreneurship; sustainable development; social innovations; triple bottom line; TBL.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSEI.2020.115519

International Journal of Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation, 2020 Vol.5 No.4, pp.317 - 334

Received: 01 Feb 2021
Accepted: 01 Feb 2021
Published online: 07 Jun 2021 *

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