Senzo Ngcobo, Kamogelo Letsoalo, Asma Sheik, Tosin Bello
Abstract
The article aims to assess the overall impact of the Automotive Company SEED Programme’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives on community development. It addresses research questions related to the identification and implementation of CSI initiatives, indicators for assessing community development through social entrepreneurship, education and environmental protection, specific outcomes, community perceptions, and challenges faced by the Automotive Company (ACo.) SEED Programme. The study adopts a qualitative case study approach, utilizing interviews and document analysis to collect data. It examines the CSI initiatives within the SEED Programme and their impact on community development. A purposive sample was used to select 20 participants.
The Automotive Company SEED Programme revealed CSI initiatives through strategic partnerships, financial investments, and skills development projects, aiming to improve livelihoods, social capital, education access, and environmental sustainability. Research emphasises holistic approaches, stakeholder engagement, and outcome-oriented measurement framework for impactful community development CSI program. This study adds to existing knowledge by providing a comprehensive examination of the impact of CSI initiatives on community development within the context of the Automotive Company SEED Programmed. It addresses research gaps and advances understanding of the outcomes, challenges, and best practices in implementing CSI initiatives.