The role of social entrepreneurs’ cosmopolitan orientation in bridging the gap between prosperity and social deprivation

Purpose Israel is characterised by economic growth that accompanied not only prosperity but also increasing poverty. This paper aims to conceptualise the role of Israel’s social enterprises in reducing gap between prosperous and disadvantaged populations. Design/methodology/approach qualitative study based on 23 in-depth interviews. It makes use a theoretical framework incorporates two elements: cosmopolitanism entrepreneurship. Cosmopolitanism, together with government policies aim develop free enterprise international trade, support entrepreneurship advance education, accompanies facilitates prosperity. Whilst increases inequality, develops as tool mitigate side effects form rich poor. Findings argues principal reason why evolved discrepancy rapidly rising requirements presented innovation-focussed economy workers’ skills. Based interviews entrepreneurs who are (co)founders or managers businesses purpose, findings show deprivation could be bridged capacity align their skills employers’ requirements, which area Israeli contribute. Originality/value The cosmopolitan orientation one contributors innovation, whilst high- low-income groups. contributes body knowledge about applying an important driver entrepreneurship, helps explain business play