The We Society S8 Ep4: Taking entrepreneurship beyond business with Eleanor Shaw
Jun 11, 2025
Eleanor Shaw, a Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, discusses the intersection of social science and entrepreneurship. She argues that entrepreneurial spirit emerges from addressing societal needs rather than just profit. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of community-focused entrepreneurs and challenges the myth of innate entrepreneurial skills. Shaw emphasizes inclusivity, advocating for diverse voices and equitable access in entrepreneurship, especially for women and minority groups, to drive positive change.
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Entrepreneurship is Deeply Social
- Entrepreneurship is about spotting societal needs and creating change that is deeply social.
- It's not just about lone individuals but about responding to human challenges in communities.
Entrepreneurs Driven by Purpose
- Entrepreneurs are often driven by a sense of purpose and personal values.
- They focus on the kind of business they want to run and how to run it ethically.
Sir Tom Hunter’s Social Impact
- Sir Tom Hunter began selling training shoes and grew a multi-million pound company.
- He sees providing jobs as the best form of social security and invests in early-stage entrepreneurs.