"Social Entrepreneurship Herald"

Social Entrepreneurship Herald

March 2025 Newsletter

"Empowering Women. Changing the World.''

Dear Social Entrepreneurship Enthusiasts,

welcome to the March 2025 edition of The Social Entrepreneurship Herald!  This month, we are thrilled to highlight the transformative power of women in the world of social enterprise. Our feature article celebrates the incredible impact female founders are having on society. From pioneering innovative solutions to tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, women-led social enterprises are shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future.

In this edition, we dive deep into the journeys of female entrepreneurs who are defying the odds, breaking down barriers, and driving change through their ventures. We’ll explore their challenges, triumphs, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way, offering inspiration and actionable insights for aspiring social entrepreneurs everywhere.

Join us in celebrating the women who are leading the charge and proving that with passion, resilience, and purpose, they are not just changing businesses—they are changing the world.

Celebrating Female Founders in Social Enterprise👩‍👧‍👦

Social enterprise, often defined as businesses with a social mission at their core, is one of the most transformative models for addressing the world’s most pressing issues, from poverty and education to gender inequality and environmental sustainability. While traditionally male-dominated, the social enterprise landscape is experiencing a dynamic shift, with female entrepreneurs leading the way in creating businesses that both profit and benefit society.

Across the globe, women are challenging the status quo by launching businesses that prioritize positive social impact. These female founders are not only addressing critical social issues but are also inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Despite facing structural and cultural challenges in a world where funding and entrepreneurial support systems are often skewed towards men, women-led social enterprises are thriving, breaking barriers, and proving that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social change.

The Power of Social Enterprise.

Unlike traditional businesses that prioritize financial profit, social enterprises focus on addressing social, environmental, or community needs while remaining financially sustainable. This unique model allows entrepreneurs to combine the innovation and agility of business with the ability to generate measurable impact, making social enterprises an essential driver of societal change.

For many women, social entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business—it’s about creating opportunities for others, championing social justice, and using business as a vehicle for activism. From improving access to healthcare and education to fostering economic opportunities for marginalized communities, female social entrepreneurs are addressing gaps left by both governments and the private sector.

Breaking Barriers: The Challenges Female Founders Face.

While female founders in social enterprise are making significant strides, their journey is not without challenges. Historically, women have had less access to funding, mentorship, and networks compared to their male counterparts. A report from Harvard Business Review shows that women receive just 2.3% of venture capital funding in the U.S. This stark gap in investment is even more pronounced in the social enterprise space, where women-led initiatives often struggle to access the capital they need to scale their impact.

In addition to financial barriers, women in social enterprise often face cultural and societal biases. The narrative surrounding entrepreneurship has long been male-centered, with societal expectations placing women in roles outside of leadership. For many female social entrepreneurs, overcoming these stereotypes is just as challenging as securing funding. Balancing entrepreneurial ambition with family responsibilities, dealing with imposter syndrome, and navigating a lack of female representation in leadership roles are just a few of the obstacles female founders must face.

These challenges have led to the development of a resilient and innovative ecosystem of female-led social enterprises. Women are finding ways to build supportive networks, utilize alternative funding models such as impact investing, and champion collaborative efforts to amplify their social missions.

Innovative Female-Led Social Enterprises.

Female entrepreneurs in social enterprise are driving innovation across various sectors, creating businesses that are not only financially successful but also deeply impactful. Here are some examples of remarkable women-led social enterprises:

1. Women for Women International - Founded by Zainab Salbi in 1993, this organization supports women survivors of war by providing them with the tools to rebuild their lives and communities. It offers educational programs, vocational training, and leadership development, helping women in conflict-affected regions like Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria. The organization empowers women to become active agents of change, lifting entire communities out of poverty.

2. The Female Founders Fund (F3) - Anu Duggal, the founder, launched this investment fund to support female entrepreneurs who are creating innovative businesses across different sectors. By providing funding, mentorship, and resources, F3 aims to level the playing field for women in tech, business, and social enterprises. The fund focuses on identifying opportunities that have a positive social impact, making it a great example of how a female-led initiative can shape industries and society for the better.

 3. Thinx – Co-founded by Miki Agrawal, Radha Agrawal, Antonia Dunbar. Thinx is a company that creates sustainable, reusable underwear for menstruation. Thinx’s mission goes beyond providing an eco-friendly alternative; it aims to reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote education around menstrual health. The founders’ story in the traditionally male-dominated fashion and health industries is a reflection of the power of persistence and innovation.

4. The Little Market – Co-founded by Hannah Skvarla and Lauren Conrad. The Little Market is a nonprofit marketplace that works with artisans around the world to sell handmade goods, empowering women to achieve financial independence. By focusing on fair trade and women artisans, the founders have created a platform that encourages both economic sustainability and social impact.

5. Shea Yeleen – Rahama Wright, the founder of Shea Yeleen, established the company to create sustainable and ethical opportunities for women in West Africa. By producing and selling fair trade shea butter products, Shea Yeleen empowers women farmers and helps improve their lives while supporting health and beauty industries.

These examples represent only a fraction of the global network of female-led social enterprises. In each case, these women have not only built successful businesses but also empowered communities and created systemic change. Their work shows that women have the ability to lead in social enterprise, regardless of the barriers they face.

Female Leadership in Social Enterprise: The Key to Success.

Female leadership in social enterprise has a unique and profound impact on the direction and success of the businesses they build. Women bring distinct leadership styles that emphasize collaboration, empathy, and community-building, qualities that are essential in creating sustainable, socially-driven enterprises.

One key aspect of female leadership is a focus on relationship-building. Female entrepreneurs in the social enterprise sector often build strong connections with their stakeholders—whether it’s customers, employees, or the communities they serve. This collaborative approach fosters trust and loyalty, which is vital for the success of any social enterprise.

Women often lead with a sense of purpose that transcends profit. Many female entrepreneurs are driven by a personal mission to address the inequities they see in their communities, whether those inequities are based on gender, race, or economic status. This sense of purpose infuses their business practices with authenticity and integrity, which resonates with consumers, employees, and investors alike.

Finally, women leaders in social enterprise often use their platform to advocate for social change. Whether it’s advocating for equal access to education, promoting environmental sustainability, or supporting women’s rights, female social entrepreneurs are powerful advocates for the causes they care about. Their leadership serves as an inspiration for other women who may be considering entrepreneurship as a path for creating social impact.

The Importance of Mentorship and Networks.

One of the key ways to support the continued growth of female founders in social enterprise is through mentorship and the creation of networks that can provide guidance, advice, and resources. Many successful women entrepreneurs emphasize the importance of mentorship in their own journeys, recognizing that having a trusted advisor can be invaluable in overcoming challenges and staying on track.

Organizations such as The Women’s Social Enterprise Network (WSEN) and The Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship are working to connect female entrepreneurs with mentors, funding opportunities, and other entrepreneurs who can provide guidance and support. These organizations are helping to create ecosystems that encourage women to enter and thrive in the social enterprise space.

Women-led networks can help female entrepreneurs collaborate on shared challenges, such as securing funding, scaling impact, and balancing work-life responsibilities. These networks also create a sense of solidarity and camaraderie, empowering women to take risks and pursue their entrepreneurial goals.

Building an Inclusive Future for Female Entrepreneurs.

The future of female founders in social enterprise is promising but still requires systemic change. As the impact of women in the social enterprise sector becomes more apparent, it is crucial for governments, investors, and corporations to continue to create an environment where female entrepreneurs can thrive. This includes increasing access to venture capital, providing targeted mentorship programs, and addressing systemic biases that often hinder women from securing leadership roles.

A more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem can only lead to greater innovation. As more women from different backgrounds and industries enter the field of social enterprise, the potential for social change grows exponentially. Women bring diverse perspectives that can lead to more innovative solutions to global challenges. The future of social enterprise is one where gender equality and social impact go hand in hand.

Celebrating the Impact of Female Founders.

Female founders in social enterprise are paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future. Their businesses are not only challenging traditional models of entrepreneurship but are also changing the very fabric of our societies by prioritizing social good alongside profit. Despite facing significant challenges, these women continue to lead with courage, resilience, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

As we celebrate the achievements of female social entrepreneurs, it is essential to continue advocating for an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports women and recognizes their immense value. The next generation of female founders is already stepping up, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to create lasting, positive change.

Female founders are not just building businesses—they are shaping a future where social entrepreneurship is driven by a diverse and inclusive leadership that benefits everyone.

Upcoming Events📅:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

• 20 March 

International Conference on 

Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ICSEI)

- New York, USA.

• 24 March

      Virtual Session: New Grants process for 

      The James Kane Foundation.

      Social Enterprise Northern Ireland.

• Mar 24 

      International Conference on 

     Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ICSEI) 

      - Brussels, Belgium

      - Ottawa, Canada

- Sydney, Australia

- Singapore, Singapore

- Las Vegas, United States

- Algiers, Algeria

- Kuwait, Kuwait

• Mar 24 

      International Conference on Social Work (ICSW) 

      - Brussels, Belgium

• Mar 24 

      International Conference on 

     Social Sciences, Economics, and 

     Business Administration (ICSSEBA) 

      - Sydney, Australia

• Mar 24 

      International Conference on 

     Poverty and Social Protection (ICPSP) 

      - Brussels, Belgium

• 26-28 March

      Anthropy 2025    

      - Cornwall, UK         

• 27 March

       Pioneers Post WISE100 

       Women in Social Enterprise Awards    

       - Glasgow, Scotland

News Briefs📰:

• The International Conference on Social Enterprise (ICSE) took place on March 3-4, 2025, in Haifa, Israel and on March 10-11, in Istanbul, Turkey. Organized by the World Academy of Science, Engineering, and Technology, the conference brought together thought leaders, social entrepreneurs, and researchers from around the globe. Attendees explored a wide range of topics, including social enterprise financing, scaling social enterprises, and measuring social impact. Key discussions focused on the role of social enterprises in education, leveraging technology for social good, and navigating the challenges of emerging economies. The conference also addressed critical issues such as social enterprise governance, balancing corporate profit with social impact, and empowering women through entrepreneurship. Participants had the opportunity to engage in networking sessions, including speed networking, and attended workshops on building successful social ventures. With a focus on practical solutions and future innovations, the ICSE conference provided a platform for advancing social entrepreneurship and creating meaningful social change worldwide.

• The International Conference on Children, Women, and Social Studies (ICCWSS) took place on March 3-4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. Organized by the World Academy of Science, Engineering, and Technology, the conference gathered experts and researchers in the fields of child development, women's studies, and social policy. Topics covered included family relationships, child psychology, the impact of globalization, gender roles, and the sociology of women. Attendees engaged in discussions on issues such as child development in disrupted families, the role of women in history, and social research in modern society. The event also explored the intersection of social work, technology, and online communities, with a focus on fostering positive social change and addressing the challenges facing children, women, and marginalized communities.

• The International Conference on Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ICSEI) took place on March 3-4, 2025, in Taipei, Taiwan; Barcelona, Spain; Arizona, United States;  Bangkok, Thailand; Rome, Italy and Haifa, Israel as well as on  March 10-11, in Istanbul, Turkey; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; London, UK ; Miami, USA; Prague, Czech Republic; Hanoi, Vietnam and on March 17 in Doha, Qatar; Tokyo, Japan; Paris, France; Melbourne, Australia, Madrid, Spain, New York, USA.. Hosted by the World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology, the conference gathered experts and thought leaders to discuss various aspects of social entrepreneurship and innovation. The event covered key topics such as micro-financing, poverty alleviation strategies, corporate social responsibility, and the role of NGOs in economic development. There were also discussions on global/local environmental issues, funding social ventures, and entrepreneurship opportunities for women, minorities, and immigrants. Participants explored the intersection of technology and social innovation, with a focus on addressing social challenges and advancing sustainable development through entrepreneurial efforts.

• The Sheffield Social Enterprise Winter Conference, titled Rewriting the Rules: Social Enterprise in Action, took place on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025, at The Workstation in Sheffield. The event brought together innovators, leaders, and changemakers from the social enterprise sector for a day of inspiring sessions and valuable networking opportunities. Richard Sulley, Senior Research Fellow in Sustainability Policy at the Grantham Centre, kicked off the conference with insights into how social enterprises can drive meaningful impact, particularly in sustainability. Emma Woods from Flourish Economics led a thought-provoking session on "The Power of Rethinking: Myths, Markets, and Meaningful Change," and the event also featured inspiring Radical Voices and Social Spotlights, showcasing the incredible work of Sheffield’s social enterprises. The conference provided a platform for both established and emerging social entrepreneurs to connect and exchange ideas.

• The European Employment and Social Rights Forum 2025 took place on March 5-6 at The EGG in Brussels, addressing one of Europe’s most urgent challenges: rising labour and skills shortages amid declining productivity. The event brought together opinion leaders, policymakers, businesses, academics, and civil society to explore how Europe can develop the skills needed to support a strong society and a thriving economy. Discussions focused on bridging the gap between skills development and the demands of Europe’s digital and green transitions, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of age or background, have access to the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. 

• The International Women's Day 2025 Social Enterprise Showcase & Networking event took place online on Thursday, March 6, 2025, hosted by Social Traders. In celebration of International Women's Day, the event spotlighted social enterprises that are making strides towards gender equality and women's economic empowerment. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from changemakers in the social enterprise sector, who are working to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for women and girls. The interactive session brought together certified social enterprises with businesses and government representatives, emphasizing the role of social procurement in achieving sustainability and ESG goals. Participants engaged in meaningful conversations, networked with social entrepreneurs, and learned how shifting procurement practices to support social enterprises can drive positive change.

• The Sustainability Netwalking event took place on Monday, March 10th, 2025, at Ecclesall Woods in Sheffield. This unique networking event, organized in partnership with the Sheffield Sustainability Network and Life Coach Karen Perkins, offered attendees the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals while enjoying the outdoors. The group gathered at the Woodland Discovery Centre car park for a 3-mile walk, followed by introductions and casual discussions on sustainable business ideas, wellbeing, and ethical practices. After the walk, participants had the chance to enjoy coffee and further networking. The event provided a relaxed and supportive space for collaboration and connection in the heart of nature.

• The International Conference on Women Entrepreneurship and Leadership (ICWEL), held on March 10-11, 2025, in Miami, USA, brought together entrepreneurs, experts, and thought leaders to explore the role of women in entrepreneurship and leadership. The event delved into how macro-level factors, policies, culture, and ecosystem institutions influence women entrepreneurs, and how women themselves impact local ecosystems. Discussions included the role of incubators, accelerators, and market cooperation in supporting women-owned ventures, as well as public policy and cross-national comparisons. It provided valuable insights on overcoming challenges, fostering growth, and ensuring sustainability for women entrepreneurs globally.

• The International Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility, Governance and Sustainable Development (ICCSRGSD), held on March 10-11, 2025, in Prague, Czech Republic, provided a platform for experts, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss the intersection of corporate governance, sustainability, and social responsibility. The conference explored key topics such as sustainable business development, green technology, corporate leadership, and the role of sustainable practices in sectors of healthcare, education, and energy. Attendees engaged in discussions about the integration of CSR with financial systems, market trends, and the impact of technology on sustainability. The event also highlighted the importance of ethics in business, sustainable project management, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and poverty eradication.

• The International Conference on Business Ethics and Social Responsibility (ICBESR), held on March 10-11, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey and on March 17, in New York, USA, gathered scholars, professionals, and business leaders to discuss the key intersections of ethics and corporate responsibility. The conference covered a wide range of topics including corporate governance, CSR, business ethics theories such as consequentialism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics, and the role of ethics in finance, marketing, and organizational behavior. Participants explored crucial issues such as corruption, labor practices, environmental sustainability, ethical decision-making, and the role of spirituality in the workplace. The event also delved into contemporary challenges in international business, social responsibility, and the integration of ethical practices in small and medium-sized enterprises.

• The Social Enterprising the Transitions Ahead film screening and Q&A took place on Wednesday, March 12th, 2025, at the Showroom Cinema in Sheffield. This powerful 30-minute documentary, commissioned by the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network (SSEN) and produced by Opus Films, showcased how local social enterprises are leading systemic change to address the social, economic, and environmental challenges of our time. The film highlighted innovative efforts in inclusive employment, circular economy models, and community-led solutions. Following the screening, attendees engaged in a 45-minute Q&A with local social entrepreneurs and experts to discuss the future of social enterprises and how they are reshaping economic structures for a fairer and more sustainable world. The event was part of Sheffield’s Festival of Social Enterprise, celebrating businesses and organisations prioritising people and the planet over profit.

• The Annual Social Value Conference 2025 took place on March 13, 2025, at the Girdwood Community Hub in Belfast. The event brought together social entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, and local council representatives to explore how social enterprises contribute to Northern Ireland's economy through partnership working. The conference featured an inspiring keynote by Heidi Fisher MBE, a renowned social enterprise expert. It also included updates on the Procurement Act 2023, insights into how social enterprises can thrive in Northern Ireland, and discussions on how the private sector can create meaningful social impact by partnering with social enterprises. There were also breakout sessions on topics such as social value, marketing, investment readiness, and access to finance. The event also featured a B2B marketplace for networking and matchmaking opportunities.

• The EFMD Social Impact Workshop took place from March 17th to March 19th, 2025, at the Sasin School of Management in Bangkok, Thailand. The workshop brought together thought leaders, business school deans, and strategic leaders in social impact to explore how business schools can act as drivers for social value creation. Over the course of 2.5 days, participants engaged in insightful discussions and hands-on activities, focusing on key areas such as strategy and culture, community engagement, student experiences, impactful research, and social impact storytelling. Attendees worked with a Social Impact Canvas and gained practical tools to implement in their own institutions. The workshop aimed to equip participants with actionable strategies for fostering social mobility, economic growth, and social cohesion within business schools.

• The Inside Portland Works: A Living Legacy of Craft & Enterprise event took place on Tuesday, March 18th, 2025, at Portland Works in Sheffield as part of the Festival of Social Enterprise. Attendees enjoyed an exclusive tour of the historic Grade II* listed building, home to a vibrant community of makers, artists, and social enterprises. The event featured two tours of the works, allowing visitors to explore the workshops and meet some of the independent tenants who call Portland Works home. In between the tours, there was a presentation about the journey of Portland Works in becoming a social enterprise, discussing both its challenges and successes, followed by informal networking. This unique opportunity highlighted Portland Works’ rich heritage and ongoing evolution as a hub for creativity, innovation, and social impact.

*OurBook Club📚:

For March 2025 book club, ‘’Female Entrepreneurs: The Secrets of Their Success’’ by John Smythe and Ruth Saunders is a must-read for any aspiring businesswoman. The book sheds light on the significant gender disparities in venture capital funding, where male-founded startups dominate, while female-led ventures receive a fraction of the support. This book emphasizes that every woman has the potential to be an entrepreneur, offering practical insights and real-world stories from fifty-two successful women who have navigated the path to entrepreneurship. Smythe and Saunders provide invaluable advice on leveraging women’s strengths, avoiding common challenges, and scaling a business with confidence. Their guidance not only empowers women to take the leap into entrepreneurship but also calls for greater recognition and support from both governments and corporations to unlock the full economic potential of female founders. This inspiring and practical guide is perfect for any woman ready to turn her entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

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Passionate About Uplifting Women in Social Enterprise,

Dr. Agatha K. Rokicki, D.B.A., B.S.

© Social Entrepreneurship Research Institute.