Bringing the 'S' in ESG to Life

As we move through 2025, the world is increasingly marked by geopolitical shifts, social division and polarised discourse. From the rollback of diversity and inclusion initiatives in some regions to the ongoing global debates around equity and justice, the social ‘S’ dimension of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) is under growing pressure.  

In this climate, businesses face both risk and responsibility. They’re expected to show leadership on social issues, but many also fear backlash or audience fatigue around purpose-driven messaging that feels more like PR than genuine action. For charities, this is not a time to retreat, but a time to step forward. The challenges we face haven’t gone away - they’ve deepened. Charities are uniquely placed to help businesses navigate this terrain with integrity.  

The 'S' Should Not Be Optional  

When ESG first gained traction, focus fell on environmental impact and corporate governance - areas that were increasingly regulated and familiar to investors. But in the wake of global health crises, social justice concerns and shifting expectations, the ‘S’ has also become central to how businesses are viewed and trusted.   

While some regions are seeing DEI programmes come under fire, most businesses - and those genuinely committed to positive impact - know that social responsibility must evolve, not disappear.   

Charities as Strategic Partners, Not Passive Recipients  

This is where charities can lead. Your work is grounded in building healthy, resilient communities, tackling issues that businesses also care about. Just as importantly, you bring lived experience, expertise, tested programmes and the credibility needed to bring the ‘S’ in ESG to life in an authentic way.  

The opportunity now is to reframe the role of charities and social enterprises - from grateful recipients to proactive partners. You should be sitting at the table with businesses, co-creating solutions that enable positive social, cultural and economic impact.     

At a recent Philanthropy Ireland Corporate Network session, Bank of Ireland’s Ian Murray shared how purposeful philanthropy is central to BOI’s social mandate, grounded in the belief that strong communities are essential to a strong economy. This reflects a growing understanding across the sector that societal wellbeing and economic resilience go hand in hand.   

We’re delighted to report that there are numerous great current examples of values-aligned partnerships including Vodafone Ireland Foundation’s Hi Digital programme - developed in partnership with ALONE and the Irish Girl Guides, which enables older people to stay connected and be more independent by improving their digital skills and embracing technology. Vodafone has also partnered with DCU’s Anti-Bullying Centre and the ISPCC to develop the Tozi app, designed to empower young people to navigate the online world in a safe and positive way.   

Recently, Mason Hayes & Curran (MHC) announced a partnership with Rethink Ireland and the Dept. of Rural & Community Development, launching a €1.5 million Connected Communities Fund to foster inclusive, resilient communities and strengthen social cohesion across Ireland. MHC have also recently joined the Global Leadership Foundation, which supports the leaders of emerging democracies to govern more effectively, contributing to peace, stability and socio-economic development. MHC Managing Partner Will Carmody said: “As a law firm, we are deeply committed to the principles of equality and inclusion….When all members of society feel connected and understood, they are more likely to collaborate and work together to address societal challenges, creating a more peaceful and inclusive community for everyone. We look forward to seeing the fund awardees’ impact in working to achieve those objectives.”   

These are just a few examples of the great impact that businesses and charities can enable together!   

Practical Steps for Stronger Corporate Relationships  

• Tune in to Today’s Pressures  
  • Understand the current pressures facing business leaders, and show how your work can help them navigate this complexity with integrity.  
• Speak Their Language  
  • Reframe your impact in terms that align with business objectives.  
• Lead with Ideas, Not Asks  
  • Come to the table with proactive proposals that solve real-world challenges.   
• Offer Measurable Value  
  • Provide data and storytelling to help your partners show regulators, investors and stakeholders that their social partnerships are producing meaningful outcomes.  
• Build Long-Term Trust  
  • Invest time in building trust-based relationships with your corporate partners.  

2025: A Year for Courage  

While some global businesses are struggling with DEI policies amid shifting political tides, others – including many Irish companies - are choosing to step up to the mark and reaffirm their commitment to meaningful social impact.   

Remember - your organisation isn’t just a “nice to support” for businesses. By positioning yourself as a strategic, impact-driven and solutions-focused partner, you can help businesses bring the ‘S’ in ESG to life, while advancing your own mission and deepening your long-term impact.   

The team at OKC are committed to enabling the ‘S’ in ESG by developing values-aligned, impact-driven partnerships. Visit www.okennedyconsulting.ie or email us at info@okennedyconsulting.ie.