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Discover how top companies are reshaping the digital workforce: empowering underserved communities through cutting-edge CSR programs focused on education, upskilling, and workforce transformation.
CSR is more than philanthropy. It’s a powerful way for companies to address global challenges, especially in education and workforce development.
As industries evolve with the digital economy, upskilling and reskilling have become essential, especially for underserved communities. CSR initiatives are critical in ensuring these workers aren't left behind, offering digital skills training that helps individuals succeed in today’s tech-driven job market.
The digital revolution is rapidly reshaping work, with automation and AI changing the skills required for success. CSR programs are bridging the education gap, empowering individuals to thrive in the digital economy through accessible training and workforce development opportunities.
Commitment to Education
A common theme in leading CSR programs is their focus on education. Companies understand that providing individuals with the right skills is key to building a more inclusive workforce. Many initiatives focus on training in high-demand fields like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Closing the Digital Divide for Marginalized Communities
These efforts often prioritize marginalized communities—those from low-income backgrounds, rural areas, or underrepresented groups—ensuring they aren’t left behind in the digital economy. By targeting these populations, companies help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that opportunities in the tech-driven economy are accessible to all.
Scaling Efforts to Meet Global Needs
As the demand for digital skills grows, companies are scaling their efforts to meet global workforce needs. The World Economic Forum predicts millions of new jobs by 2025 due to technology advancements, while others will be displaced. To address this, companies are expanding programs through online platforms, virtual training, and partnerships with governments and educational institutions.
"By 2027, 43% of work tasks will be automated. Urgent investment in human capital is needed to ensure people can fulfill their potential and thrive."
— World Economic Forum, The Future of Jobs Report 2023
A Shared Vision for Empowerment and Scalability
Education, empowerment, and scalability are the pillars of the top CSR initiatives. By investing in workforce development today, these companies are fostering a more inclusive and resilient economy for the future.
In the following sections, let’s explore how companies are using CSR programs to drive social impact through upskilling, reskilling, and workforce development, contributing to a more equitable digital economy.
About the Company
Walmart Inc., a global retail leader, operates over 10,500 stores across 19 countries and employs 2.1 million people worldwide. Headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, Walmart focuses on providing value through innovation and sustainability.
Social Impact Focus
Walmart’s CSR initiatives aim to create economic opportunity through upskilling, job mobility, and inclusion. The company emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion to build a more inclusive economy. By investing in employee growth and prioritizing marginalized communities, Walmart ensures that all individuals have access to education, employment, and advancement opportunities.
Investing in Employees: Doug McMillon, President & Chief Executive Officer of Walmart
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Walmart’s workforce development programs, such as Walmart Academy and Live Better U, equip frontline workers with essential digital skills, including cloud computing and data analytics. By promoting skills-based hiring and internal mobility, Walmart contributes to economic growth and inclusion in a tech-driven world.
About the Company
JPMorgan Chase & Co. is a global financial services leader with over $3.9 trillion in assets and operations in 100+ markets. With a 225-year legacy, the firm supports clients and communities through investment banking, commercial banking, asset management, and financial services.
Social Impact Focus
JPMorgan Chase drives inclusive and sustainable economic growth through its Corporate Responsibility initiatives, focusing on five areas: business growth, careers and skills development, community development, environmental sustainability, and financial health. The company’s success is closely tied to the well-being of the communities it serves.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
JPMorgan Chase’s initiatives help build a tech-savvy, inclusive workforce by providing digital skills training and policy solutions. The firm ensures diverse communities have access to high-demand jobs, contributing to a more resilient workforce for the future.
About the Company
Verizon Communications, a global leader in communications technology, empowers individuals and communities by connecting people to the digital world. Since its founding in 2000, Verizon has focused on solving complex challenges and bringing digital solutions to millions of customers globally.
Social Impact Focus
Through the Citizen Verizon initiative, Verizon aims to drive positive economic, environmental, and social change. The company is dedicated to bridging the digital divide by providing access to technology, skills training, and workforce development. Verizon promotes digital inclusion and supports underrepresented groups through initiatives focused on education, small businesses, and career advancement.
Vandana Venkatesh, Chief Legal Officer, on Verizon’s ESG reporting strategy and progress
Key Initiatives
Human Prosperity through Workforce Development
Verizon is committed to preparing 500,000 individuals for future tech-driven jobs by 2030. The company also emphasizes inclusivity, with 60.3% of its U.S. workforce comprising women and people of color, and has pledged $54.3 billion towards diverse suppliers, contributing to economic inclusion.
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Verizon’s programs, including Verizon Innovative Learning and Skill Forward, equip underserved communities with essential digital skills. By providing training and access to technology, Verizon supports a more inclusive digital economy, ensuring more individuals can thrive in tech-based roles.
About the Company
Founded in 1869, Goldman Sachs is a global leader in investment banking, securities, and asset management. With a strong commitment to financial innovation, the firm provides exceptional services worldwide.
Social Impact Focus
Goldman Sachs focuses on economic empowerment by supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly women. Since 2008, the firm has deployed over $3.5 billion in programs to drive economic growth in underserved communities. Key initiatives include the 10,000 Small Businesses and 10,000 Women programs, which provide education, mentorship, and access to capital for entrepreneurs globally.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Goldman Sachs empowers women and small business owners with the tools they need to succeed in a tech-driven world. By supporting women-led businesses and fostering innovation, Goldman plays a pivotal role in economic growth, particularly in emerging markets undergoing digital transformation.
About the Company
The Walt Disney Company is a global leader in entertainment, known for its iconic storytelling and innovation. Founded in the 1920s, Disney has grown into one of the most admired companies worldwide, inspiring audiences of all ages through its creative and entertainment divisions.
Social Impact Focus
Disney's social impact mission centers on creating a better world through education, workforce development, and community engagement. Programs like Disney Aspire and Disney Future Storytellers aim to nurture talent and provide opportunities for youth to explore careers in media, entertainment, technology, and hospitality.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Through programs like Disney Aspire and Future Storytellers, Disney is preparing individuals for the digital economy. By offering education and skill-building opportunities in media, entertainment, and technology, Disney fosters a future workforce that drives technological and creative advances, benefiting both the company and the broader economy.
About the Company
Boeing is a global aerospace leader, manufacturing commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems. With 170,000 employees and a vast supplier network, Boeing is committed to driving innovation, economic opportunity, and sustainability.
Social Impact Focus
Boeing’s social impact efforts focus on sustainability, workforce development, and creating an inclusive work environment. The company emphasizes STEM education and workforce training, aiming to prepare the next generation of innovators. Boeing’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion ensures that all employees have opportunities to reach their full potential.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Boeing’s focus on STEM education and professional development ensures that its workforce is equipped with the technical skills needed for roles in aerospace, technology, and defense. Programs like Learn@Boeing and the Tech Forum support both current and future workers in meeting the demands of the digital economy.
About the Company
Nestlé, a global leader in food and beverages, operates in 188 countries with around 270,000 employees. The company’s mission, "Good food, Good life," reflects its dedication to improving quality of life and sustainability while addressing global challenges like nourishing the growing population responsibly.
Social Impact Focus
Nestlé’s CSR efforts focus on creating shared value, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company prioritizes empowering young people and women by providing access to economic opportunities and career development resources.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Nestlé’s youth employment and STEM education initiatives, such as Nestlé Needs YOUth, equip young and underrepresented individuals with the skills needed for technology-driven careers. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, Nestlé helps build an inclusive digital economy, preparing future generations for a tech-centric world.
About the Company
Delta Air Lines, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is the oldest operating U.S. airline and one of the largest globally. With over 100,000 employees and 5,400 daily flights to 325 destinations, Delta connects people and communities across six continents. The airline is known for its commitment to safety, sustainability, and customer service.
Social Impact Focus
Delta’s social impact efforts focus on creating opportunities, promoting equity, and fostering sustainability. The airline's Close the Gap strategy aims to improve the representation of women, Black talent, and Latinx/Hispanic talent in leadership roles. Delta emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) through its skills-first approach, prioritizing competencies and relevant experience over academic degrees.
Delta is applying a “skills-first” approach to talent that focuses on capabilities, competencies, and relevant experiences as well as academic degrees when hiring and developing talent.
Key Initiatives
Community Engagement and Impact
Delta actively engages in community impact projects such as supporting safe play areas for children and planting trees. Employees volunteer with charitable partners, and Delta plays a key role in disaster response efforts by mobilizing resources for relief.
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Delta's focus on education and workforce development, through partnerships with initiatives like Junior Achievement, equips students with the skills necessary for success in tech-driven careers. The airline’s commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that individuals from underrepresented backgrounds can access these opportunities, contributing to a more inclusive digital economy.
About the Company
Founded in 1971 as a single store in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Starbucks has grown into a global brand with a presence in over 80 markets. The company’s mission centers on human connection, with employees (partners) at the heart of its business. Starbucks is dedicated to creating positive change in the world through its communities and sustainability efforts.
Social Impact Focus
Starbucks aims to go beyond profit by making a positive impact in every community it serves. Its social impact strategy focuses on sustainability, community engagement, and economic opportunity. Starbucks strives to lead in sustainability by becoming resource-positive and creating economic empowerment through education and job creation.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Starbucks empowers its employees to thrive in the digital economy through initiatives like SCAP, which equips them with the skills needed for tech-driven roles. These programs foster a more adaptable and skilled workforce, both within and outside the company.
About the Company
3M, a global science and technology leader with over 120 years of innovation, operates in 70 countries and serves various industries. The company’s mission is to unlock the power of people, ideas, and science to address global challenges and create a sustainable, equitable future.
Social Impact Focus
3M’s social impact strategy centers on its Strategic Sustainability Framework, with three pillars: Science for Circular, Science for Climate, and Science for Community. The company focuses on reducing social and economic disparities through workforce development and STEM education, particularly for underrepresented communities.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
3M’s investment in STEM education is critical in developing a talent pool equipped for the digital economy. By offering millions of STEM learning experiences, 3M fosters innovation and ensures diverse perspectives contribute to future economic growth.
About the Company
Marriott International, Inc. is a global leader in hospitality with approximately 9,000 properties in 141 countries. Founded in 1927, Marriott has grown with a focus on service, integrity, and creating opportunities for its associates and communities.
Social Impact Focus
Marriott’s Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction platform aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It addresses social, environmental, and economic challenges, with a strong emphasis on youth, women, diverse populations, and underserved communities.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Marriott’s workforce development programs, especially those providing training for underrepresented groups, help build an inclusive digital economy. By investing in skills training and hospitality education, Marriott prepares individuals for success in a technology-driven global workforce.
About the Company
McDonald’s, one of the world’s largest foodservice retailers, operates over 41,000 restaurants in 100+ countries. The company focuses on convenience, affordability, and personalization while fostering inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement.
Social Impact Focus
McDonald’s social impact strategy, centered on "feed and foster communities," extends beyond food to promote inclusivity, job creation, and sustainability. The company’s Impact Strategy focuses on four key areas: Planet, Food Quality & Sourcing, Jobs, and Community Connection.
Key Initiatives
Contribution to the Digital Economy
Through the Archways to Opportunity program, McDonald’s prepares employees for the digital economy by offering education and skills training. These initiatives help individuals advance in their careers and contribute to a more skilled and resilient workforce ready for the tech-driven economy.
Leading the Charge in Addressing the Global Skills Gap
The companies featured in this article are addressing the global skills gap through their CSR initiatives, providing education, upskilling, and workforce development. These efforts not only foster company growth but empower individuals from diverse backgrounds with the digital skills needed to succeed in today’s tech-driven world.
The Critical Link Between CSR, Education, and the Digital Economy
As industries evolve with automation and technology, businesses are increasingly recognizing the need for a digitally skilled workforce. By bridging the digital divide, these companies ensure that underserved communities can access the education and resources needed to thrive in the modern economy.
Creating Inclusive Growth and Empowering Individuals
Investing in education and reskilling helps drive inclusive growth. These initiatives empower individuals to actively participate in the digital economy, opening new opportunities and fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
Partner with NoCode Institute for Digital Reskilling Initiatives
CSR departments play a crucial role in driving social impact through education and workforce development. NoCode Institute can help your company create meaningful digital reskilling programs that empower communities and drive long-term economic growth. Get in touch with NoCode Institute to see how your company can make a positive impact through education and digital transformation.
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