Chapter 2: Reducing Poverty Through Social Entrepreneurship: The Case of Edun

This chapter discusses the emerging role of social entrepreneurship as a means of reducing poverty, particularly in developing nations. The chapter has 2 aims: (1) to provide an initial understanding of the concept of social entrepreneurship; and (2) to offer an in-depth understanding of social entrepreneurship through the example of Edun. Social entrepreneurship involves the creation of innovative, sustainable solutions to immediate social problems with an emphasis on those who are marginalized or poor. While many examples are not-for-profit organizations, the domain of social entrepreneurship also includes for-profit businesses that deliver both economic and social value. Edun, launched by Bono, Ali Hewson, his wife, and a New York fashion designer, Rogan Gregory, is a for-profit socially conscious clothing business focused on developing sustainable employment in poverty stricken regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Edun was launched to shift the focus from aid to trade in the developing world.