Abstract
Purpose - This study examines self-defined interpretations of age by later-working-life (LWL)
social entrepreneurs and how these influence constructions of their social entrepreneurial
identities (SEIs).
Design/methodology/approach - Adopting a social constructivist ontology and inductive,
interpretive, theory elaboration qualitative methodology, a sample of 28 social entrepreneurs
based in England were interviewed, data being analysed thematically using the Gioia method.
Findings - Using social identity theory and its linked self-categorisation lens, this study reveals
three types of LWL social entrepreneurs. First, LWL Strategic Social Business Scalers embrace
both social and business identities in support of their social mission. Second, LWL Social
Value Creatorsidentify with their social identity as making a difference to the local community,
income generation being perceived as incompatible with their social mission. Finally, LWL
Syncretic Social Entrepreneurs demonstrate shifting identities, evolving from purely social
value creation to balancing hybridised social and commercial identities.
Originality – This study reveals social entrepreneurs’ age has a positive role in forming LWL
SEIs, associated experience, skills, knowledge and sense of urgency acting as a catalyst,
facilitating rather than hindering social and economic participation. It contributes to the social
entrepreneurship literature by advancing current theorisation of age’s role in constructing over-50s’ SEIs.