COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

ABSTRACTS

The study examines community development and sustainability through social entrepreneurship and social innovation using Edo state and precisely Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO), Benin-city, Edo state as case study. The study had a population size of 131 out of which a sample size of 100 was realised using Taro Yamene formula at 5% error to tolerance and 95 % level of confidence. Instrument used for data collection was primarily questionnaire. The total numbers of 100 copies of the questionnaire were distributed while 75 copies were filled and returned. Tables and percentages were used as techniques of analyzing the research questions while regression analysis was employed to test the research hypotheses through the use of SPSS. The findings of this study are: social entrepreneurship has significant effect in the creation of employment opportunities for the residents of communities in Edo state; social entrepreneurship has significant effect in the creation of avenue for social innovation for the residents of communities in Edo state; and social entrepreneurship and social innovation has significant effect in improving the lives of residents of communities in Edo state. The study concludes social entrepreneurs have an important role to play in community development. They motivate change in communities by creating a new equilibrium in the communities and affecting many people through innovative ideas therefore addressing social issues. The study recommends social entrepreneurs should request direction from local people, who know their needs best and how such needs might be met. It is essential to reinforce measures such as monitoring, motivation and providing advice to township residents in order to promote local development.