Orion Pearson
Pronouns: He/Him
Research Mentor(s): Muzammil Hussain
Research Mentor School/College/Department: The Big-DIG Research Lab @ The Institute for Social Research / Other
Program:
Authors: Orion Pearson, Muzammil Hussain
Session: Session 6: 3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Poster: 38
Abstract
This research project delves into the intersection of organizational communication and social entrepreneurship, examining how digital networks empower diverse cultural communities to mobilize for collective action and long-term capacity building. In tandem, scholars in business studies have explored the rise of social entrepreneurship and impact investing, recognizing them as sustainable models driven by a mission to effect social change alongside profitability. Centering on the registered North American Muslim non-profit and impact investment organizational ecosystem (n < 2,500), this study aims to elucidate its parameters, key contributors, and avenues for innovation. Through a three-phase approach, it computes a census of registered non-profit organizations serving the American Muslim social sector over the past two decades, adds demographic and regional insights, and explores related organizations via digital network and human capital analysis. The research's significance lies in being the first formal investigation of this multi-cultural connected community, shedding light on a sector often misunderstood in social research and plagued by socio-political tensions. By examining novel models of social innovation in the US, particularly on the peripheries, the study offers valuable insights and aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders in the NGO and non-profit space, by bridging gaps and facilitating cooperation.
