How do Argentine SMEs define CSR? Cases in educational social development

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the social responsibility approaches of six small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Argentina and their definitions of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory, qualitative study and part of a broader study. A sample of six Argentine SMEs from manufacturing, services and construction sectors was used to evaluate specific CSR initiatives in the areas of social development. A total of 23 interviews were conducted, and open coding was used to analyze and develop categories and themes from the data patterns.

Findings

Results provide a set of definitional dimensions for CSR from an Argentine perspective, and indicate that SMEs in Argentina frequently engage in education and training oriented initiatives as a primary emphasis for their CSR efforts. Commitment, community and employee orientations, the natural environment, and education/training represent key elements of their conceptualizations of CSR.

Originality/value

This research extends the literature related to CSR definitions. It also highlights elements of a growing trend around educational social development initiatives in developing countries. Additionally, it is one of only a few studies to focus on Argentina.

Citation

Massoud, J.A., Daily, B.F. and Willi, A. (2019), "How do Argentine SMEs define CSR? Cases in educational social development", World Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 139-148. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJEMSD-10-2018-0090