The Effect of Social Network in Social Entrepreneurship: An Empirical Chinese Case Study

Social entrepreneurship is emerging as an innovative approach for dealing with complex social needs and provide social service with non-profit social mission. The success of social entrepreneurship relies not only on the relocation of resources but also on the personality and social network of social entrepreneurs. This paper studies whether and how personal social networks of entrepreneurs take effects in social entrepreneurship process. Through case analysis, this paper draws two conclusions: the persons who could provide real help for social entrepreneur give him (the social entrepreneur) the highest level of trust; the "bridge" man who provides information, connection and potential contribution is as important as the final help provider.