Abstract
Creating Shared Value (CSV), the managerial concept introduced by Porter and Kramer in 2011, offers companies a framework for identifying opportunities to create economic value in a way that also improves social outcomes for society, fostering regional transition toward sustainability. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in CSV concept from both the academic and the professional world. Several scholars have explored the idea and shared value strategies have been designed and implemented by a number of the world’s major MNCs. Nonetheless, much of the scholarly discussion around CSV remains arguably under-theorized and empirical research that might help theorizing on the topic is largely missing. This study provides insights into the successful configuration of innovative CSV business strategies through the case of 21 Invest, an Italian firm operating in the private equity market with a CSV approach. Building on a comparative case study analysis of three of the most successful investments of 21 Invest in Italy, this study makes a step forward in the understanding of how firms translate shared value agendas into actions. Both theoretical and practical implications of the findings for successfully translating shared value agendas into action are discussed.