Employing CSR in SME development to survive Arab Spring fluctuations – the case of Egypt: General Authority for Investment (GAFI)

Abstract

Subject area

Business ethics, sustainability and economic development.

Study level/applicability

This case is suitable for both advanced undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Case overview

The case presents a pioneering initiative run by the Egyptian General Authority for Investment (GAFI) to mitigate the implications of the 25th of January revolution on SMEs. The case describes the “Business Clinic” program that was designed to provide SMEs with world class consultancy services through the CSR programs of large local and multinational consultancy firms.

Expected learning outcomes

The case should help students in: defining corporate social responsibility and describing its importance; describing the role of SMEs in economic development; identifying the different growth obstacles that face SMEs; relating theories in different managerial fields that could be linked to CSR and development; investigating the Arab Spring and describing its repercussions on economic development and sustainability; and illustrating CSR role in solving SME problems.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Citation

Aziz, H.H.A. and Darrag, M. (2013), "Employing CSR in SME development to survive Arab Spring fluctuations – the case of Egypt: General Authority for Investment (GAFI)", , Vol. 3 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/EEMCS-02-2013-0018