Board of directors as a critical factor in the success of social enterprises

Abstract

This article examines the role played by Boards of Directors in contributing to the success of social enterprises in the South African non-profit sector. Previous studies by several scholars have painted a gloomy picture on the contributions of Boards of Directors to the success of organisations within the non-profit sector. Highly involved and effective Boards of Directors have been argued to be an infrequent phenomenon, an exception rather than the norm. Using primary data from a qualitative study, this article argues that Boards of Directors are playing a significant role in the success of many social enterprises within the South African non-profit sector.