RESPONSABILIDAD SOCIAL EMPRESARIAL COMO FACTOR CLAVE DE CRECIMIENTO DE LAS PYMES DE LA INDUSTRIA MANUFACTURERA DEL GUAYAS

Abstract

The main objective of the research was to determine the importance of corporate social responsibility as a key factor in the growth of SMEs in the manufacturing industry of Guayas. For the methodology, several academic articles were reviewed on the CSR factors that influence the competitiveness of SMEs, and the general barriers for the participation of SMEs in CSR activities. Also, surveys were conducted by email and telephone to 41 SMEs belonging to the manufacturing industry of Guayas. The sample was determined by means of the formula for sampling and the detailed list of SMEs was obtained from the page of the Superintendence of Companies. It was concluded that most companies do not allocate capital for CSR training for their employees, but they are aware that CSR practices and approaches are one of the main tools to grow and improve their competitiveness. Given that most SMEs are financially limited to increase their productivity and growth, it is advisable that they form strategic alliances and share information, technology and costs that satisfy all their stakeholders.