Factors Influencing Sustainability Of Social Enterprises Within Church Organizations: A Case Of Catholic Diocese Of Nairobi

Abstract

Social Enterprise has proved to be the most powerful global concept which describes those businesses with primarily social and environmental objectives whose surpluses are principally re-invested for that purpose in businesses or in the community rather than to provide returns to owners and share-holders as profit. Social enterprises hold immense benefits to the social enterprise and the society and as such, any sustainability challenge that may lead to the demise, bankruptcy or dissolution of such individuals, institutions and companies pose dire consequences for such noble enterprises. Such sudden ends see the very hopes and lives of the beneficiaries dwindle due to sustainability challenges. This is why this study examined the factors influencing sustainability of social enterprises within Church organizations: a case of Catholic Diocese of Nairobi. Using a target population of project managers, project directors and project staff in the social enterprises in the Catholic Diocese of Nairobi, and five research questions, the study selected a sample and employed descriptive survey design. The research instruments were questionnaires and the interview guide for the sample. For data analysis, both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. The findings showed that all the four variables in the study influence sustainability of social enterprises within Church organizations. Project design has the greatest significance followed by management, community attitude and lastly, finance. Based on the findings, the study concluded that for any social enterprise within Church organizations to be sustainable it must establish a strategic fit in its management, alternative income generating projects, project design and community involvement. Various recommendations based on findings and areas for further study suggested.