Institutional and territorial drivers of rural social enterprise ecosystems: Evidence from Finland

Background: This article investigates the interplay between institutional frameworks and territorial conditions in shaping the development of rural social enterprise (RSE) ecosystems in Finland. Research objectives: Drawing on comparative case analysis across three regions—Lapland, Satakunta, and Kainuu—the study identifies key configurations of governance structures, socio-economic conditions, and infrastructural dynamics that enable or constrain the emergence and sustainability of RSEs. Research design and methods: Through document analysis, expert interviews, and regional data, the research introduces the concept of "institutional–territorial fit" to explain the varied trajectories of ecosystem formation. Results: The findings show that successful RSE ecosystems are contingent on multi-level institutional coordination, place-based adaptability, and civic engagement. Conclusions: The article concludes with strategic recommendations for fostering resilient, inclusive, and territorially embedded social enterprise ecosystems.