Is it possible that a whole new, distinct fourth sector is developing right before our eyes? The modern business world has up to now comprised the private for profit, public/ government and non-profit sectors. But today there is a blurring of the lines between these sectors. There is also a burgeoning global movement, known as social enterprise, which straddles all the other sectors.
But, first, if social enterprise is to become the new fourth sector it will need to overcome some structural challenges. The first is one of definition. The term "social enterprise" has been imbued with many different meanings and become associated with other catchphrases such as "sustainability", "green" and "corporate social responsibility".
