Determinants of ESG Transparency in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

This thesis focuses on ESG transparency in SMEs in relation to leaders' attitudes. The aim was to identify the key determinants that influence leader attitudes towards ESG transparency. The research was conducted using a qualitative method of in-depth semi-structured interviews with SME leaders. The results reveal a different perspective on the relationship between leader attitudes and ESG determinants than was originally the focus of the research. The leader's attitude is not primarily the result of the determinants, but rather the leader's attitude fundamentally influences the way in which the various ESG transparency determinants are perceived, interpreted and applied in practice. Depending on their value settings, leaders look for reasons why and how to accept or reject ESG principles. Thus, the determinants are not influencing factors, but their importance changes depending on the leader's internal beliefs. Support for smaller enterprises should therefore focus primarily on creating frameworks that help leaders perceive ESG as a meaningful part of business operations.