Exploring the link between corporate social responsibility and team innovation performance: A literature review

The objective of this paper is to articulate a conceptual model that delineates the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on team innovation performance (TIP). This review reveals a notable void in CSR research, which predominantly emphasizes external environmental and community impacts while neglecting the internal dimensions of CSR, which are yet to be explored. The connection between CSR and team-level innovation, particularly within the context of Chinese high-tech enterprises, is an area that has not received adequate scholarly attention. The existing body of literature has primarily examined the indirect impacts of CSR on innovation performance, yet the mediating role of intellectual capital in this relationship has been largely unexplored. In response to these research gaps, this paper introduces a conceptual model that posits intellectual capital as a mediator in the relationship between CSR and TIP in Chinese high-tech enterprises, where the intersection of CSR and innovation is a burgeoning area of interest. It offers valuable insights for subsequent research into ways in which CSR strategies can enhance TIP and strengthen the competitive advantage of firms. This model serves not only to enrich academic discourse but also to carry practical significance for policymakers and corporate executives. For policymakers, insights from this model can inform the development of policies that foster corporate responsibility and innovation, thereby nurturing the growth and sustainability of high-tech sectors. For corporate leaders, understanding the nuances of this relationship can guide strategic initiatives that enhance innovation capabilities and solidify market position.