Role & affiliation
Lasma Licite – Kurbe is an associate professor in social economy at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, where she contributes to WISESHIFT as a leading researcher in the Faculty of Economics and Social Development.
What she works on
Lasma is researching WISEs in Latvia by highlighting the overall situation in the social entrepreneurship field in the country and, specifically, the transformative power os WISEs operating in the care sector, agriculture, and reuse. For a small country with limited experience and history in social entrepreneurship, it is quite challenging. But the country has strong people with great motivation and enthusiasm to bring about societal change. Lasma is bringing international experience to social entrepreneurs, students, and policymakers in her home country, while enriching the project with examples from Latvia of how social entrepreneurs with limited resources can create transformative change and implement social innovation.
Background & perspective
Lasma is the author of several publications on social entrepreneurship and books. Has been involved in several international and national projects as a leading researcher, where she has expertise in data collection and analysis of the social enterprises and social economy. Defended her PhD in 2014 on social entrepreneurship development opportunities in Latvia. Delivers courses in social entrepreneurship for more than 10 years at the university and provides guest lectures in several foreign universities. Supervisor for PhD students writing dissertations on social entrepreneurship.
Why WISESHIFT matters to Lasma
WISEs are changing the way we think about work and impact. Through meaningful work, WISEs give individuals the chance not only to earn a living, but to truly belong – to become part of a community that values inclusion, dignity, and shared growth. At the same time, they are driving the transition toward a more sustainable economy and creating real change for communities. In Latvia, WISEs are still developing, but they have become increasingly important. Together, we can build inclusive societies and resilient economies that work for everyone.
Quick facts
- Institution: Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
- Research / practice themes: social economy, social enterprises, social innovation, work integration social enterprises, social enterprises in rural areas
- Location: Svetes 18, Jelgava, LV-3001, Latvia
Role & affiliation
Daan Kwant is a PhD candidate in Public Administration at Radboud University, where he contributes to WISESHIFT as a project member in the Institute for Management Research.
What he works on
Daan’s doctoral research focuses on contrasting values and identity formation within the intersection of social-economy practice and public-governance theory. Through WISESHIFT, he explores how Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) can accelerate inclusive and sustainable transitions. In parallel, he contributes to the Horizon Europe project RADAR (Renewing Administration through Democratic Anchorage Reforms), examining how new forms of policymaking and public governance can reinforce democratic legitimacy.
Background & perspective
Trained in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences (BA) and International Relations (MA), Daan previously taught at the University of Amsterdam for four years, before starting his PhD. He is also the founder of Soepgoed, a community initiative that creates meals from leftover market ingredients, fostering social connections and reducing food waste. Daan values maintaining awareness of people’s lived experiences and aims to apply academic knowledge in practice, while at the same time using the practical knowledge derived from lived experiences.
Why WISESHIFT matters to Daan
The transition to a socialeconomy is not merely an option; it is essential for protecting both people and planetary boundaries. Daan seeks to contribute to this transition within the academic realm through his work on WISESHIFT, as well as through initiatives like Soepgoed. The goals of WISESHIFT align closely with the values Daan holds dear, making his involvement a meaningful extension of his commitment to accelerate the transition to a social economy.
Quick facts
- Institution: Radboud University
- Research themes: Social economy, sociological perspectives on governance, critical public administration
- Location: Elinor Ostrom Building, Heyendaalseweg 141, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands