Current Volume 8
Social Entrepreneurship and Inclusion: The Role of Startups in Developing Solutions for the Autistic Community
Abstract
Social entrepreneurship has emerged as a powerful force for social change, offering innovative solutions to meet the needs of underserved communities through sustainable business models. One population that stands to benefit significantly from this model is individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). People with ASD often encounter unique challenges related to communication, sensory sensitivity, social integration, and mobility, which can hinder their access to education, employment, and everyday experiences. Traditional public policies and charitable initiatives, while essential, frequently fall short in providing tailored and sustainable solutions for these individuals. In contrast, social enterprises—profit-driven organizations with a social mission—are increasingly stepping in to fill this gap. This article explores how social entrepreneurship can promote inclusion and autonomy for individuals with ASD by developing products and services specifically designed to meet their needs. A particular focus is given to the startup Fashoes, which creates adaptive footwear for autistic individuals, addressing both sensory comfort and practical functionality. The success of such ventures illustrates how business innovation can respond directly to individual needs, enhance quality of life, and foster greater independence. To contextualize these developments, the article includes a comprehensive literature review of six recent academic studies, examining how social enterprises contribute to employment, product design, awareness, and sustainable impact for the autism community. These studies collectively affirm that startups play a critical role in redefining how society supports people with ASD—not only through service delivery but also by shaping perceptions and advancing inclusive practices. The analysis concludes that social enterprises have a unique potential to generate long-term, scalable solutions that bridge the gap between disability inclusion and market innovation. Their dual focus on financial viability and social mission positions them as key agents of change in creating more inclusive societies. However, challenges related to funding, awareness, and systemic support remain, underscoring the need for continued research, collaboration, and investment. Social entrepreneurship, when nurtured and supported, offers a path toward genuine inclusion and empowerment for the autistic community.
Keywords
Social Entrepreneurship, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Inclusion, Assistive Innovation, Adaptive Footwear.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Jammylly Fonseca Silva
"Social Entrepreneurship and Inclusion: The Role of Startups in Developing Solutions for the Autistic Community" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 6 Issue 6 2022 Page 386-391
IEEE:
Jammylly Fonseca Silva
"Social Entrepreneurship and Inclusion: The Role of Startups in Developing Solutions for the Autistic Community" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 6(6)
About IRE Journals
IRE Journals is an open access online journals established with an aim to publish high quality of research work in various diciplines. We have more than 6 years in publications. Over 2500+ papers already published.
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