Growing Inclusive Markets “Social Entrepreneurship Cases in Turkey”, which investigates successful examples of social entrepreneurship from Turkey, came out in July 2012 by the Istanbul Bilgi University Publications. This book is a first in terms of various aspects. It is the first publication of IICPSD, the first research of UNDP in Turkey on social entrepreneurship in Turkey, and the first thematic research conducted through applying the case-writeshop as the method, which is another prominent characteristic of the study.

The study was conducted in scope of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in February 2011 between the Istanbul Bilgi University and Growing Inclusive Markets in South East Europe and Commonwealth of Independent States, which is a joint project of the UNDP and TIKA (Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency). The book includes sections on the relation between social entrepreneurship and inclusive markets; the situation of social entrepreneurship in Turkey; case studies about KEDV (the Foundation for the Support of Women’s Work), Genctur, AYDER (Alternative Life Association), Bugday and Cop(m)adam, analysing their business models and problems, and suggesting solution strategies; and a section explaining the “case write-shop” methodology.

The aim of the book is to draw attention to the concept of social entrepreneurship, which has not yet received due recognition in Turkey, to raise awareness about it and to popularise it. Professor Aydın Ugur, the former rector of Istanbul Bilgi University, states “Growing Inclusive Markets Initiative is proposing new and innovative solutions to social problems and has set a common stage offering enthusiasm of creativity, determination and solidarity. As the name implies, in order to make the initiative of Growing Inclusive Markets successful and sustainable, and to include those who are excluded, everyone’s contribution who desires a fair world is needed.” Moreover, Henry Jackelen, IICPSD’s former acting Director, emphasizes the significance of the social enterprises with these words: “As we proceed through the second decade of the 21st century few topics are more important than social enterprises and entrepreneurship for a number of reasons. First of all those social enterprises which yield financial scale and impact as well are self-sufficient demonstrate an alternative (yet fully affiliated model) to classic enterprises (for profit) and entrepreneurship. In an age where the environment challenges are immense social enterprises may well be one of the most promising methods or alternatives in a vast array of possible “niches” unsuited or inappropriate to classic enterprise.”