Towards a sustainable innovation model for small enterprises

Innovative CSR

“…This paper started with the observation that discussions of CSR and innovation rarely seem to cross-fertilise each other, despite the fact that both subjects are increasingly being seen as complements to corporate competitiveness (MacGregor et al 2010). The paper then proceeded to explore innovation as a basis for an alternative conceptualisation of CSR to one based on the business case.…”

“…This is surprising, given the degree of interdependence between the two areas (MacGregor et al 2010). On the one hand, product innovation and the development of new technologies by business-whether advances in IT, biotechnology or pharmaceuticals-have fundamental implications on the consumption choices, living standards and quality of life of individuals and societies globally (Matten et al 2007).…”

“…From a company's point of view, a major beneit of innovative CSR lies in the fact that innovation in the ield of CSR may be easier to undertake than other forms of innovation. In view of the generally risky nature of innovation, innovative CSR can provide an experimenting ground where the risks are relatively controlled (MacGregor et al 2010). If the innovative CSR project succeeds, the company will have improved its legitimacy with society, and perhaps the project could also become a crystallisation point for other forms of innovation.…”

“…In terms of the former, managers charged with the implementation of CSR could learn from the diffusion of innovation (MacGregor et al 2010). Here, Rogers (1995) pointed to a bell curve of innovation diffusion of innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards.…”

Organizing and innovating in poor places

“…Most obviously, there is a long tradition of research on corporate social responsibility (CSR). With some notable exceptions, this work has tended to concern itself with the motivation and firm-level consequences of socially responsible behaviour (MacGregor, Fontradona & Hernandez, 2010;Preuss, 2011). However, debate on the role of corporations in poor places appears to be shifting away from the concept of CSR, to a focus on how firms can achieve innovative social outcomes.…”