Developing social entrepreneurship through public procurement: a wicked problem!

Purpose This paper explores attempts to deliver socioeconomic benefit by developing social enterprise within the public sector supply chain. Design/methodology/approach A case study approach is adopted which focusses on implementation of procurement policy intended support entrepreneurs (SEs) in delivery care Scotland. Socio-technical systems theory (STST) as a lens through explore case. Findings While acknowledging contextual limits study, empirical findings recognise partial measures develop entrepreneurship The results, however, suggest that both engagement levels SEs and expected socio economic benefits are yet accrue fully. Social implications concludes order achieve further progress required engaging formal collaborations with larger, potentially for profit, organisations also their increased involvement design commissioning services. Originality/value innovative, cross-sectional research uses survey based, gap analysis provide nuanced comparison between views local authority officers opinions prevalent providers thereby assesses effectiveness policy.