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creating shared value

what is it?

Creating shared value (CSV) is a broad economic theory that suggests that businesses can create economic value by creating societal value. In other words, by actively improving society, businesses increase their own competitiveness. In this way of thinking, by acting as as a force for good, businesses improve their performance.

Unlike CSR, which emphasizes doing good through philanthropy or volunteering, CSV is an integral part of business strategy and profit maximization.

Reinventing capitalism by creating shared value

by Michael Porter and Mark Kramer

Creating shared value explained

from Harvard Business School

why csV?

It is perhaps unnecessary to make a business case for CSV, since the entire premise is that the most successful businesses are the ones that actively improve the environment, public health, infrastructure in their communities, and more.

Think about it: A coffee company that supports coffee farmers strengthens local economies and ecologies, and improves its product. A software company that offers coding courses educates its community and grows its potential employee pool.

Listen to the creator of the concept himself explain the importance of CSV:

more resources

Image by Matt Ridley

THE ORIGINS OF CSV

Read the original paper that introduced the world to the concept of CSV. "Creating Shared Value: How to reinvent capitalism - and unleash a wave of innovation and growth."

Image by Samson

PUBLISHED CSV CASES

A selection of the cases taught in the senior executive education program on shared value at Harvard Business School.

Image by Perry Grone

CSV CASE STUDIES

Some prominent examples of CSV from around the world from the Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Fund (SIE Fund), a catalyst for social innovation in Hong Kong.

csV in action

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Nestle

Creating Shared Value is fundamental to how Nestle does business.

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Cisco

Cisco Networking Academy transforms the lives of learners, educators and communities through the power of technology, education and career opportunities.

Image by Anastasiia Ostapovych

Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson is marching toward a lofty goal: help 100,000+ employees be at their personal best when it comes to their health and well-being

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