The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from being a philanthropic option to an imperative for companies seeking long-term success. Entrepreneurs are dedicated to making a difference, their commitment to social responsibility and corporate sustainability is woven into the very fabric of their operations. From environmentally conscious practices to community engagement initiatives, they are actively incorporating social causes and CSR into their daily business activities.
We asked entrepreneurs and business owners how they incorporate CSR or social causes in their businesses. Here are the responses;
#1- By leveraging our expertise to support NPOs
Our approach to incorporating corporate social responsibility (CSR) into our business model centers on leveraging our expertise in design and branding to support community initiatives and non-profit organizations. We collaborate with various local and global non-profits, offering pro bono or reduced-rate services in branding, web design, and digital marketing. We are mindful of our environmental impact and aim to adopt sustainable practices in our operations, such as reducing paper usage and optimizing digital workflows. By integrating CSR into our core business strategy, we foster a culture of social awareness and responsibility within our team.
Thanks to Valev Laube, The VL Studios!
#2- Educating underprivileged students
We have been actively involved in various social causes and corporate social responsibility initiatives, and recently, we have focused our efforts towards improving access to education for underprivileged students. I have this firm belief that education is the key to unlocking one's potential and creating a better world. This is why we have also partnered with various NPOs and charities to provide free college counseling services for deserving students who cannot afford our services. Until now, we have successfully guided and mentored numerous students from low-income backgrounds to gain admission into prestigious universities.
Thanks to Eric Eng, AdmissionSight!
#3- By helping NPOs become a global brand
Each year, we dedicate and offer $30k worth of pro-bono marketing, branding, and creative services to a brand doing amazing work either as a social enterprise or as a non-profit. Last year we created an entire rebrand for Australia's newest media company Missing Perspectives. Founders Phoebe Saintilan-Stokes and Hannah Diviney are creating an incredible organization bringing women's voices to the forefront of the media globally. Their brand needed some love and we helped them create a timeless, global brand that could support propelling them onto the global stage. Each year we strive to connect with amazing brands doing positive work for people and climate.
Thanks to Tash Ritz, BlueMelon Design!
#4- By adopting eco-conscious production practices
As part of our commitment to social responsibility and corporate citizenship, we have adopted a holistic approach. Our environmental stewardship is reflected in our eco-conscious production practices, from the procurement of sustainable supplies to the utilization of green energy, effectively reducing our ecological impact. Partnering with NGOs, we redistribute a portion of our income for community enrichment, in turn raising community awareness about significant issues. Also, we advocate diversity and inclusivity in the workplace through our mentorship initiative, guiding disadvantaged young individuals aspiring to pursue a career in design.
Thanks to Ricky Allen, Ever Wallpaper!
#5- By giving impact hours of voluntary work
In our firm, we’ve adopted a straightforward yet effective form of social responsibility through “Impact Hours.” We have opted to go beyond mere monetary donations by asking employees to volunteer their time and expertise for community projects as part of work hours. This not only helps us to bring a constructive change in the regions where it is more required but also creates some sort of common goal among our team. Through setting aside designated hours for giving back, we’ve found that our employees are more immersed in this activity, and the company culture is increasingly focused on community involvement.
Thanks to Sanket Shah, The Opal!
#6- By making ‘worthy cause' cookies
After my position was made redundant, I sought meaningful ways to spend my time and stumbled upon a volunteer opportunity with ‘Worthy Cause', a social enterprise dedicated to employing vulnerable individuals to make cookies, as well as training them in necessary life skills. During this period, I decided to start my own venture, ‘Altasphere' a wellness and self-care e-commerce website. In a unique blend of entrepreneurship and social responsibility, I incorporated ‘Worthy Cause' cookies into my business model. I donate all proceeds from these cookie sales back to the social enterprise.
Thanks to Sara Psoras, Altasphere!
#6- By combining team-building with a social cause
We combine our company team-building days with supporting a social cause. We're lucky that the Lambda team are socially conscious and values giving back to the community. Rather than frivolous team-building days, we like to take the team to beach cleans, or dog shelters to help out for the day. The process itself is open, encouraging any team member to suggest a cause to support for our next event.
Thanks to Ryan Stone, Lambda Films!
#7- By improving lives
My business is about improving lives. My work has created a very strong community of people who are passionate about their dreams and goals and often work together. Your2Minds is about people. Therefore, social causes are an integral part of what we do. Every year we choose different charities that we can contribute to. Most of the charities we have contributed to focus on helping vulnerable children and families. Most recently we have been supporting children who have a hearing impairment. We contribute but it also allows our global community of clients to contribute collectively. It deepens our purpose and the impact that we are having.
Thanks to Suzana Mihajlovic, Your2Minds!