Did Entrepreneurship Contribute to Nonprofits Surviving the Great Recession?
Julianne Gassman, Norman A. Dolch, Ann M. Kinnel, Stephanie Krick, Regan H. Schaffer, SueAnn Strom

Abstract
This study analyzes social entrepreneurship and its role in the response of nonprofit organizations to the Great Recession. Six case studies focus on the decisions of the executive director of selected nonprofit organizations. The research provides evidence that nonprofit organization leaders are engaging in entrepreneurship. Two organizations started new programs. Five of the six programs expanded their services and one offered their services to a new group of clients. One of the five organizations, not only started a new program, once established, was able to expand their services within a few years. Three of the six organizations created new partnerships. Although the number of cases is small, they comprise a theoretical sample that clearly indicates entrepreneurship plays an important role in the success of nonprofit organizations. A better understanding of nonprofit entrepreneurship can assist nonprofit organization executive directors and other leaders in accomplishing their missions even in hard economic times.

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