Chambers Ireland launches CSR & SMEs guide

BITCI News - Apr 21, 2015

CSR for SMEsBusiness in the Community Ireland welcomes the recent guide for SMEs launched by Chambers Ireland which highlights the benefits of engaging in Responsible Business and Sustainability and the steps to take when choosing a charity partner. The guide was developed in partnership with Dóchas and The Wheel.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland said, “The idea that CSR is just for big business is a myth, in fact, CSR is actually more suited to SMEs given their flexibility and tendencies towards innovation and entrepreneurship. SMEs are at the heart of their communities which makes partnering with a charity a perfect fit. This short guide shows the real business benefits to SMEs of embracing CSR, of which there are many, and also the simple steps to take when choosing a charity partner.”

Hans Zomer, Chief Executive of Dóchas, continued “More and more companies realise that rather than being a cost, corporate social responsibility is an opportunity for business. Partnering with not-for-profit organisations can help unlock a company’s potential to be sustainable from both an ethical and a financial perspective. This guide makes it easier for companies to understand and identify their charity partners, by suggesting ways to identify successful and well-run charities.”

Commenting on the launch, Deirdre Garvey, CEO of The Wheel said: “No business operates in isolation; all SMEs interact with employees, customers, suppliers and the wider community. CSR is about managing these relationships to produce an overall positive impact on society. By matching their skills and resources to a need in the community, SMEs can make a real and lasting impact.

Business in the Community Ireland recently launched a new service offering supporting SMEs with communicating their sustainable and responsible business practices.

( www.rbsmes.ie)

Commenting on the importance of the service and the benefits for SMEs, Tina Roche, CEO, Business in the Community Ireland said:

“Given the fundamental importance of small businesses to the economy, it is vital that we safeguard their future. One of the best ways of doing this is by encouraging small businesses to embrace sustainability as a core mission, just as large companies are increasingly doing. ”

Please download the Chambers Ireland guide here