ABSTRACT

The theory and practice of corporate governance has evolved substantially, at least in some jurisdictions. Good corporate governance is self-evidently a central aspect of responsible business practice. This should include how companies ensure effective board oversight and governance of their commitments to corporate responsibility and sustainability. Good governance is just as applicable to non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including corporate responsibility coalitions. The number of staff working for individual coalitions varies substantially from one to several hundred. The various business-led corporate responsibility coalitions around the world have chosen different funding models, reflecting national possibilities, traditions and business preferences. Some coalitions rely on membership subscriptions. Some are partly financed by grants from public or philanthropic sources. Others rely on consulting fees, project grants or sponsorship. Some have hybrid funding models. These funding models have changed over time for individual coalitions. Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) now generates a substantial amount of its income from consultancy.