THE NOVGOROD REGION: «THE PORTRAIT» OF A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR

Abstract

Social entrepreneurship in Russia is gradually becoming a common practice, which, however, still has its own peculiarities and problems. Focus-group sociological study conducted in 2017-2018 by the Center of Innovations of the Social Sphere of the Novgorod region in order to determine the set of typical (distinctive) characteristics of the subject of social entrepreneurship of the region, carried out by the subjects of social entrepreneurship themselves, was represented by two groups of social entrepreneurs already engaged (still planning to be engaged) in activities in various areas for providing social services to the population in the territory of the Novgorod region. Data processing on the basis of the analysis of group discussions written on transcripts was conducted; complex indicators, including such components of «the portrait» of a social entrepreneur as value orientations and social activity, social responsibility, inclination to activities aimed at solving social problems, innovativeness of thinking and activities, the economic efficiency of the business were estimated. Thus, it was revealed that social entrepreneurs of the Novgorod region are open to people and have a high level of conscious social trust. They find themselves responsible for the creation of good and bringing it to life, the equalizing of society, changing the society for the better, improving the world, changing the life around them. The vast majority of respondents understand that a lot depends on entrepreneurs, and they should, along with the state and public organizations, participate in solving urgent social problems. The study of their motivation to work indicates that such positions as self-realization, professional self-fulfillment, putting certain ideas into practice, pursuit of independence, self-employment come at the forefront for social entrepreneurs. The main source of financing for social entrepreneurs is their own economic activities. Innovation as one of the components of the social entrepreneurship effectiveness, the search for cutting-edge solutions, state-of-the-art technologies and unconventional resources is not a large-scale phenomenon among Novgorod social entrepreneurs. Several short illustrations of the essence of social entrepreneurs’ activity in the Novgorod region are given. The results of the study allow us to conclude that social entrepreneurs of the Novgorod region have a high level of social trust, have the best moral qualities and are predisposed to social solidarity, strive for the effectiveness of their business and are confident in the importance of their actions, prone to innovation and creativity, demonstrate readiness for self-organization and collaboration with the authorities.