Improving social conditions is not limited to the activities of charities, government and philanthropic bodies. The business community also has its part to play and mainstream businesses of all types have begun to focus on corporate social innovation as part of their mission. Examples of this are breaking down the barriers that prevent improved standards of living for marginalized communities in new markets as well as transitioning to a zero carbon footprint supply chain (instead of merely reducing carbon).
Corporate innovation in the social sphere is about supporting breakthroughs in the way that businesses operate in order to achieve social an environmental goals as well as making a profit. This is being driven by customer demands for a more ethical approach to commerce as well as the realization that meeting environmental and social challenges requires a commitment from all parts of our society.