Published Paper Details:

This study compares the efficacy of inclusive business (IB) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies in developing nations in tackling important socioeconomic issues like sustainable development, economic inclusion, and poverty alleviation. CSR has always prioritized voluntary philanthropic efforts and community welfare, has been widely adopted by businesses to enhance their social impact. However, its long-term effectiveness and alignment with core business operations have been questioned. In contrast, Inclusive Business integrates low-income and marginalized communities directly into business value chains as suppliers, consumers, and employees, fostering both profitability and social progress. Using case studies and empirical data, the research explores the relative impact, sustainability, and scalability of both approaches. The findings suggest that while CSR initiatives often provide short-term community benefits, Inclusive Business offers a more sustainable and inclusive model for economic empowerment and poverty alleviation, particularly in resource-constrained and underserved regions. This study contributes to the discourse on how businesses can more effectively support sustainable development goals by aligning their strategies with the needs of local co `mmunities in developing economies.