It is with pleasure that I sit down to write about an issue that has occupied a prominent place in my thinking lately: the power of corporate investment in social projects.
As I delve deeper and deeper into today’s business landscape, I am convinced that such an investment is not only beneficial to the communities it serves, but is also a smart and sustainable strategy for companies themselves.
That’s why I decided this week to write a series of articles showing how investing in social projects can be not only a differentiator, but also a lever for your business.
The synergy of social and business returns
A study carried out in 2022 by the Harvard Business Review pointed out that companies that invest in corporate social responsibility perform 19% better financially than those that do not.
This study became a warning about the importance of investing in social projects. The payoff comes in many forms: not just in financial terms, but also in increased reputation and customer loyalty.
For example, a minority person may feel connected to your brand if they truly understand that your company is investing in their peers.
However, it is very important to truly embrace the cause and not just market it, because in this case, instead of attracting these consumers, you will end up scaring them away.
Failure to invest in social projects
The other side of the coin is equally intriguing. Companies that do not invest in social projects are missing out on a valuable opportunity to generate long-term sustainable value.
A recent Nielsen survey revealed that 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for products and services from companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impacts.
And it’s not just a matter of consumers – employees are also increasingly looking for employers who align with their societal values.
And, in addition, international investors themselves are eyeing companies that have an environmental commitment to sustainability.
The importance of sport and the case of Jiu-Jitsu
Now I would like to cite an example that I think is very important: investing in sport, especially Jiu-Jitsu, which for me has greater sentimental value.
I like to say that investing in sports is one of the most effective ways to make a positive leap towards social projects.
Sport is not only a physical activity, but also a discipline that includes values of respect, focus, determination and teamwork.
Social projects that promote Jiu-Jitsu have demonstrated a profound impact on vulnerable communities by giving young people a positive and constructive outlet, and consequently helping to build stronger and more resilient societies.
Building a sustainable future
However, investing in social projects should not be seen only as a short-term strategy to increase profits.
It’s crucial to look beyond the bottom line and see whether the true value of such investments is building a more sustainable future for themselves and the communities they serve.
For example, by investing in a Jiu-Jitsu project, you are not only sponsoring a sport, but you are also investing in the mental and physical health of young people, fighting crime and creating future leaders and consumers. This is a return that goes far beyond the financial.
Concluding…
Finally, I would like to appeal to companies to seriously consider investing in social projects, not just as a means of generating profit, but as a way to create sustainable value in the long term.
They have the power to transform lives, build strong communities while delivering tangible benefits to those who invest in them. And this is what I call a true sustainable strategy.
