Innovating for social good: digital transformation and crisis-based entrepreneurial opportunities
Maiolini, Riccardo
Capo, Francesca Venturi, Paolo
Capo, Francesca
Venturi, Paolo
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Abstract
Purpose
This research explores how Social Organizations (SOs) leverage digital transformation during crises, focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic.
It examines the links between digital innovation, business model adaptation, and social impact, offering frameworks for resilience in challenging contexts.
Design/methodology/approach
The research employs qualitative methodologies to analyze data from 481 project proposals submitted by Italian SOs in response to a crisis-oriented grant initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic. The methodological approach combines systematic coding procedures and analytical frameworks, validated through expert consultation to ensure methodological rigor.
Findings
The analysis identifies four strategic approaches to digital transformation: product reconfiguration, business model adaptation, organizational change, and network development. These findings reveal varying digital adoption capabilities among SOs, emphasizing the need for context-specific implementation strategies.
Research limitations/implications
The research scope is limited by its focus on Italian SOs, potentially
affecting result generalizability. Future research directions should encompass cross-cultural comparative analyses and longitudinal investigations of digital strategy evolution.
Practical implications
The research provides strategic frameworks for organizational leaders implementing digital transformation initiatives. Additionally, it offers guidance for policy development and investment allocation in supporting SO digital capability development.
Social implications
The integration of digital transformation strategies with social objectives enables SOs to enhance service delivery effectiveness, improve accessibility, and strengthen inclusive practices, ultimately amplifying their societal impact potential.
Originality/value
This study addresses how SOs manage digital transformation and entrepreneurial opportunities during crises, contributing to literature by integrating digitalization, entrepreneurial management, and business model innovation perspectives.
Description
Date
2025
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Keywords
Social enterprises, Digital transformation, Digital capabilities
Citation
Maiolini, Riccardo, Francesca Capo, and Paolo Venturi. “Innovating for Social Good: Digital Transformation and Crisis-Based Entrepreneurial Opportunities.” Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development 32 (4): 981–1000. 2025.