Social innovation through experiential learning: the role of Indigenous entrepreneurs

Birgit Muskat, Ravini Abhayarathne, Haiyang Xia, Xiangru Qin and Carlyn Waters

Chapter 11 in Handbook of Teaching and Learning in Social Innovation, 2026, pp 180-195 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Social innovation can be developed by entrepreneurs who create ventures to address socio-economic challenges. Indigenous Australians face complex social problems, and social innovation supports them towards greater societal equality. We explore the transformative potential of cultural knowledge sharing and experiential learning in fostering social innovation. Indigenous storytelling, yarning circles, participatory public art, and connecting with and learning from nature through storytelling and guided tours are introduced as entrepreneurial activities and experiential learning initiatives. We present two Indigenous community-based case studies of ventures to demonstrate how entrepreneurial activity bridges cultural gaps and promotes a deeper understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing. The chapter concludes with recommendations for learning and teaching practices that can enhance personal reflection and learning and develop social innovation, ultimately contributing to the mitigation of pressing socio-economic issues.

Keywords: Social Innovation; Indigenous Entrepreneurship; Cultural Knowledge Sharing; Experiential Learning; Australia (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035318292
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