CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR RURAL ASSISTANCE PROJECTS IN MANABÍ

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/yc.v10i18.0883

Abstract

This study examines the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the implementation of social projects in rural communities of Manabí, Ecuador, which are characterized by poverty, social exclusion, and limited access to basic services. A quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental, and cross-sectional research design was applied, using a structured survey administered to a non-probabilistic sample of 50 rural residents. The findings reveal a high level of awareness (90%) and community participation (90%) in CSR initiatives, along with a predominantly positive perception of their impact on quality of life (80%). However, corporate actions are mainly focused on short-term assistance areas such as education, health, and food support, with less emphasis on strategic dimensions such as productive development and environmental sustainability. Additionally, CSR interventions are carried out on a periodic basis primarily quarterly limiting the continuity and long-term effectiveness of development processes. The study concludes that, although CSR is widely recognized and valued within these communities, its structural impact remains limited due to philanthropic approaches, weak multi-stakeholder coordination, and the lack of long-term strategic planning. Strengthening participatory, sustainable, and territorially aligned CSR models is recommended, fostering collaboration between businesses, communities, and local governments as a key driver of rural sustainable development.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, rural development, social projects, sustainability, community participation.