ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a perspective of the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in our national and global economies. It explores the characteristics of SMEs and the way they differ from MNEs. The chapter introduces the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and a roadmap to sustainable business. SME development and growth is an economic priority for many regions in the world. The level of SME activity differs considerably in markets around the globe, as indeed does the definition of what an SME constitutes. SMEs can leverage the advantages of CSR, building on this inherent alignment with sustainability principles, through adopting a more structured and transparent approach. CSR, lies within a tunnel of three prerequisites include leadership and strategy; ethics; and governance. Often part of a local community, SMEs maintain close ties with their local networks and surround themselves with relationships which are based on trust throughout the long term, providing a buffer against potential risk or unforeseen adversity.
