arbiter
JournalsAccount

Analysis of the relationship between firm innovation and corporate social responsibility: A systematic literature review

Daniel Alonso‐Martínez et al.

European Management Review2026https://doi.org/10.1111/emre.70056article
AJG 3ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Firm innovation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are key strategic considerations that shape a firm's competitiveness and sustainability. However, studies exploring the relationship between the two are heterogeneous and sometimes obtain contradictory results, making it difficult to draw clear conclusions. This systematic literature review addresses this gap by examining 72 peer‐reviewed studies spanning 2000–2024 to assess the type of relationship (direct, indirect, other), direction (causality), sign (positive/negative), and statistical significance of the innovation‐CSR relationship. The results generally support a positive relationship – especially from CSR to firm innovation‐ although the outcomes vary depending on measurement approach, sector, geographical context, and period. Beyond direct effects, we identify more complex dynamics, notably mediation/moderation processes, which can involve both firm innovation and CSR. Academically, this study clarifies theoretical trends, highlights underexplored frameworks, and contributes methodologically by applying the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Review protocol and the theories‐contexts‐methods framework, which could enrich future research. For managers, we offer guidance with regard to leveraging CSR to foster innovation and in turn improve firm performance. For policymakers, our findings can inform designing frameworks to stimulate sustainable business practices. Finally, for society at large, this study can contribute to aligning corporate behavior with social and environmental objectives.

Open via your library →

Cite this paper

https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/emre.70056

Or copy a formatted citation

@article{daniel2026,
  title        = {{Analysis of the relationship between firm innovation and corporate social responsibility: A systematic literature review}},
  author       = {Daniel Alonso‐Martínez et al.},
  journal      = {European Management Review},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/emre.70056},
}

Paste directly into BibTeX, Zotero, or your reference manager.

Flag this paper

Analysis of the relationship between firm innovation and corporate social responsibility: A systematic literature review

Flags are reviewed by the Arbiter methodology team within 5 business days.

Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.