The overlooked rugged communitarians of Ireland

Purpose - To provide a general review of religious entrepreneurs in Ireland from the late nineteenth to early twenty‐first century. Design/methodology/approach - The achievements of numerous male and female religious entrepreneurs' activities and achievements are described and discussed. Examples are given from Catholic, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian and Quaker religions in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Findings - Up to the middle of the twentieth century religious life was often a path to higher education and the achievements of one's full potential. Up to that stage most of the enterprises established by religious entrepreneurs were schools and hospitals, housing associations, and textile and leather manufacturing. The enterprises were primarily aimed addressing the needs of the poorer sections of society. From the second‐half of the twentieth century to date, social services, tourism services and cross community organisations predominate. Many of the foundations of the so‐called Celtic Tiger lie in the pioneering work of religious entrepreneurs. Originality/value - In linking entrepreneurship with religion, this paper highlights the valuable role many religious entrepreneurs have played in social innovation. Many references to web sites are provided, to allow readers to easily learn more about organisations of particular interest.