Guidelines for business ecosystem management of social enterprises for sustainable cities and communities in Thailand

Abstract

      This research aims to investigate the situation and problems of social enterprise operations, business environmental systems, operational systems, and performance in Thailand. The study utilizes in-depth semi-structured interviews with 5 social enterprise entrepreneurs and using content analysis to propose management guidelines for business ecosystem of sustainable cities and communities social enterprises.

         The findings reveal that sustainable cities and communities social enterprises can thrive through the advocacy of founders, both in terms of capital and operational capabilities. However, integrating communities into business processes may pose challenges, with potential mismatches in goals. Access to funding remains limited due to financial institution hesitancy and incomplete business plans tailored to the context. Moreover, these enterprises face high market competition and difficulties in accessing consumers compared to more recognized brands. Technical support for production and innovation to diversify products in response to changing consumer needs are lacking.

         Guidelines for business ecosystem management for these social enterprises involve fostering research collaboration and innovation, nurturing intermediaries to match business needs with community potential, and providing adequate and contextually relevant funding sources. Emphasis should be placed on utilizing available resources, leveraging specialized labor or outsourcing, and developing products to meet consumer demands, thereby increasing community income. These guidelines aim to enhance sustainable urban and community development through sustainable cities and communities social enterprises in Thailand