Plenary 7: CSR as a way to ensure sustainability and growth of SMEs

by Bradley K. Googins, Ph.D.

From developing countries, CSR plays a key role in addressing both critical societal issues such as human rights, labor rights, environment, and economic opportunities like cluster of competitiveness and transfers of skills and technologies. However, the true potential of CSR has been less recognized or limited from the Multinational Corporations’ demands to monitor SME’s from south according to North standards and needs, which calls for collaboration to promote sustainable development. These conditions require a new set of CSR tools, such as stakeholder engagement and partnerships. This development can promote South-South development to strategically strengthen competitiveness of SME’s in south.


by Ralph Z. Sorenson, Ph.D.

Does a culture embodying CRS enhance or impede an SME company's chances for profitable and sustainable growth? This is a question facing SMEs in both developing and developed countries. The answer depends on a variety of factors that Dr. Sorenson will address in his remarks. Further, he will outline his ideas on what is required for CRS programs to be truly successful.