Date of Degree Completion
Spring 2019
Degree Type
Capstone - Open Access
Degree Name
Master of Education (MEd)
Instructor/Advisor
John Giordano
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to assess the potential that small businesses hold to improve the social and environmental conditions of the communities in which they reside. The existing literature focuses on the socially responsible activities of corporations. Large corporations are generally expected to participate in “socially responsible” activities, such as contributing funds, volunteers, and other resources to philanthropic causes. Often, the main motivation behind such activities is to improve the public image of the corporation, which has ultimately been shown to increase sales, thus increasing the economic power of corporations. This study surveyed representatives of smaller businesses in the New England area to determine the extent to which small and medium size businesses are socially responsible, and to compare their motivations and actions to those of larger businesses.
Recommended Citation
Tetrault, Danielle, "With Great Power: Assessing the Social and Environmental Responsibilities of Small and Medium Businesses" (2019). Community Engagement Student Work. 32.
https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/soe_student_ce/32