Drivers and outcomes of CSR engagement in UK SMES

Abstract

Building on insights from the motivation-opportunity-ability (MOA) theory, we develop and test a conceptual framework of perceived antecedents, contingencies, and broader performance outcomes of corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement within small and medium enterprises (SMEs). By following a micro-level approach and using multisource data including a sample of 219 responses from UK entrepreneurs and objective performance data, we reveal the importance of perceived individual-level characteristics such as the entrepreneur’s personal values and competence, as well as the moderating role of perceived firm-level employee supportiveness in strengthening CSR engagement. We further highlight the positive effects of CSR engagement on a broad range of business, social and environmental performance outcomes as revealed by the entrepreneurs in our sample.