%0 Journal Article %A Mateusz Rak %D 2016 %J International Journal of Economics and Management Engineering %B World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology %I Open Science Index 113, 2016 %T Corporate Philanthropy as a Source of Competitive Advantage %U https://publications.waset.org/pdf/10004727 %V 113 %X Objective: The paper aims to present various sources of competitive advantage which may occur when an enterprise strategically applies its concept of corporate philanthropy. Methodology: The review of the literature and available reports on the research regarding corporate philanthropy. Results: Strategic philanthropy is a positive phenomenon. Unfortunately, enterprises in Poland do not see all positive sides of such activities yet. Three kinds of corporate philanthropy may be described. They are to fulfil a social duty, improve the company reputation and gain a competitive edge. Practical implications: Showing enterprises the advantages of taking philanthropic actions, in particular, a large role of strategic philanthropy in gaining a competitive edge in the market as well as how to avoid negative consequences of corporate philanthropy. The paper presents corporate philanthropy on a few layers: as a CSR element, actions generating values in products, actions improving a corporate image in the market, altruist actions of employees. %P 1741 - 1745