Exploring the motivations behind circular social entrepreneurs in Romania

Abstract

The chapter continues previous endeavors of mapping Romania’s circular social entrepreneurial landscape, identifying the Romanian social entrepreneurs’ main motives for adopting circular business models. After mapping the circular social enterprises, a quantitative investigation was developed. Four main dimensions were considered: personal traits, values and attitudes, personal motives, and externally linked motives. Regarding individual characteristics, the most favorable ratings were attributed to vision achievement, perseverance, and proactivity. Conversely, the least favorable assessment was related to the tolerance for ambiguity. When considering values and attitudes, the highest ranking was egoistic passion, while the lowest was associated with a desire for public recognition. In the realm of personal motivations, the most significant values were observed in the need for flexibility and independence, closely followed by a desire for personal security and new financial resources. Intriguingly, external motivations displayed an even balance between social and environmental concerns. For active circular social entrepreneurs in Romania, the primary drivers are rooted in their values and attitudes, with personal motives playing a relatively minor role. Consequently, this study underscores an altruistic profile and an entrepreneurial commitment equally directed toward society and the environment.