Date of Award
2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Department
General Business
First Advisor
Mallory Flowers
Abstract
Unaffordable housing, food insecurity, and mental health challenges are three of the most pressing issues facing many veterans in the United States. Research demonstrates that agricultural initiatives for veterans have the potential to positively impact veterans’ quality of life while also providing an accessible source of income, fresh healthy food, and community engagement. A veteran urban farm and housing initiative has the potential to create power for veterans through a community approach to entrepreneurship and business model innovation. This approach reflects both the community experience of many veterans during their military service as well as offers a path to individual wealth creation. Business model innovation is needed to develop an approach that addresses unaffordable housing costs, food insecurity, and mental health challenges. A veteran urban farm community within Rhode Island may point to paths for veterans within other states’ cities and towns in the United States. This research case study attempts to more actively and creatively consider business models which are centered upon the assets of veterans and opportunities in U.S. cities through urban agriculture initiatives. In order to explore potential business models focused upon these challenges, this dissertation utilized Participatory Action Research (PAR) which included focus groups, interviews, memos, and outreach. The goal was achieving in-depth understanding. Findings highlight barriers, opportunities, and stakeholders involved in implementing a veteran urban farm and housing model. This research contributes to scholarship and practice of veteran reintegration, business model innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Recommended Citation
Phillips, Jason Thomas, "IDEA TO IMPLEMENTATION IN SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A CASE STUDY FROM A VETERAN URBAN FARM AND HOUSING INITIATIVE" (2025). Open Access Dissertations. Paper 4488.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/oa_diss/4488