CSR in SMEs: strategies, practices, motivations and obstacles

TLDR: In this article, a questionnaire was sent out to a large sample of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Portugal to identify accurately and extensively: CSR practices at the social, economic and environmental levels; the motivations, perceived benefits, existing obstacles; and the types of support and strategies that render possible an explanation of the factors which place the greatest restrictions on SME adoption of CSR practice.

Abstract: Purpose – Given the greater recognition of the role played by small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) within the European economy, this research aims to provide an insight into SME CSR practices. Within this scope, the objective is to identify accurately and extensively: CSR practices at the social, economic and environmental levels; the motivations, perceived benefits, existing obstacles; and the types of support and strategies that render possible an explanation of the factors which place the greatest restrictions on SME adoption of CSR practices.Design/methodology/approach – This research was realized through the completion of a questionnaire type inquiry structured around table‐based analysis. The questionnaire was sent out to a large sample of SMEs in Portugal.Findings – The main results demonstrate that, while CSR takes on an informal, non‐structured character, it has been incorporated into the daily management of such companies. Furthermore, contrary to what happens at large companies, CSR at SME...