Typology of social entrepreneurs. First type.

The first rule of a social entrepreneur is not to tell anyone that you are a social entrepreneur. In many countries in Europe there is no official definition. Thus, sometimes it’s very hard to identify them. But more challenging is to classify them and draw typical portraits of a Changemaker. What types of people are engaged in social entrepreneurship? I don’t even try to create any scientific classification. These are only my personal observations from seminars, meetings, forums and consultations mostly from Russia and some countries from Eastern Europe. So, it will be very interesting to hear opinions and thoughts of people from different countries all other the world.

I more rely on my internal feelings, but still made two main criteria:

1. Value orientation (individualist — social);

2. Attitude towards money (primary — secondary).

As a result, four types of social entrepreneurs can be distinguished, which are certainly refined, in many ways cartoon, but allow drawing a grid of coordinates within the community. The list is not definitive, new ones may appear. For each of them I have 5–6 living representatives in my head. I will however not give any names.

You can send your owns examples in the comment section; bring those who you think are similar. To raise interest, I will introduce you to the types one by one.

Let’s start.

The first type of social entrepreneur is “Savior.” He is closer to nonprofit activist than to entrepreneur. At the heart of his activity is a nuclear source of internal energy, which must somehow be used daily. Moreover, the desire to save the world. His slogan: “Nobody except me” describes his motivation very well.

He doesn’t believe in words, but trusts acts. Consciously goes to the most problematic industries, where concrete actions not chit-chats are needed. Such individuals feed homeless people living on the streets, save animals, care for disabled and elderly people, clean garbage, help people with addiction, etc. It is important for them to see the results of their efforts immediately. Real help here and now gives a strong feeling of taking a difference.

As such a man once told me: “If once saved someone’s life — the effect is stronger than heroin and you sit on it firmly.” Money, glory, financial success — it doesn’t make a difference. That is why in the spectrum of value orientations, despite all altruism, Savior is on the side of individualists. It is a bright and socially approved way of self-realization. Self-affirmation through helping your neighbor. And let it be, it’s good.

Money for such people is definitely not the main thing, only a mean of bringing justice. I’m not sure if many of them have fully calculated business plans of their social ventures. First get into a fight, and then we’ll figure it out. Therefore, their enterprises often resemble a pyramid: current activities are supported by the opening of new directions. Balancing around zero without chasing profits, they fill holes from random workings and new projects. But most surprisingly, it doesn’t stop them from staying afloat for years.

Usually they have LLC and NGO registered for one person. They combine grants and commercial activities. They willingly take risks and luck loves them. Over time (if they survive all mistakes) they acquire good competences and come to stable positions. At the same time, they don’t care about statuses and when it comes to the structured organization — they keep it only to have something to write on a business card.

They feel uncomfortable with traditional entrepreneurs (although they love and learn quickly), as talks about money seem to be too boring. On the other hand, in the non-profit sector, they hate inefficiency, slowness, and distance from so called fundamental problems.

With all the flexibility, they hardly know how to obey and make a deal with conscience. Internal nonconformism blocks the way to the world of official and corporate hierarchy. That’s another reason why Savior comes into social entrepreneurship. Here they feel psychologically and financially independent.

They are not chasing glory, but are widely known in narrow circles. Those around them are quickly impregnated and planted on their energy. With such an active lifestyle, as a rule, they have time to have a family, children and hobbies.

The inner rod, confidence in their own right, brightness of character, multiplied by selflessness and recognition of others, make such people outstanding representatives of the world of social entrepreneurship.

Three more types are on the way. I wonder if you saw your friends in the first? Write in the comments what you think, and what types of social entrepreneurs you distinguish