Microsoft Gulf to identify next-generation corporate giving strategies for GCC countries at CSR Summit 2008

Microsoft will share its proven Citizenship strategies to help track new trends and set up benchmarks for effective Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs in the Gulf. The week-long event is expected to bring together decision makers leading business and social organizations to share ideas and best practices that will help define the future of CSR in the region. The event is being held from June 14th-19th, 2008 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Dubai.

Microsoft has been a prominent figure in the development and promotion of CSR activities in the Gulf having made significant investments in initiatives that address various social and economic issues. Through grants, software and curriculum donations, technology solutions and employee volunteer hours; Microsoft supports programs and organizations that address the needs of communities across the Gulf.

Commenting on the event, Charbel Fakhoury, General Manager, Microsoft Gulf said,

'Companies in today's global economy are not only accountable for the quality of their products and the profitability of their businesses but they also have an obligation to fulfil social, economic and environmental commitments to the communities in which they operate. Through our Citizenship initiatives, we have globally touched millions of lives and continue to play a significant role in nurturing strong local software economies and fostering economic development across the region. It is my pleasure to be part of this forum which is a great opportunity for leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss the critical issues they face and create a road map for the development of sustained CSR programs in the region.'

The event also features a panel discussion amongst regional CSR leaders who will discuss the future direction of CSR in the GCC.

Dr. Zaki Khoury, Panel Member and Citizenship Lead for Microsoft in the Gulf said, 'At Microsoft, we want to inspire ideas, stimulate participation, instill sustainable change and help people to realize their full potential. Our ongoing work in citizenship is focused on mobilizing our resources, know-how, and technology to create opportunities in communities across the Gulf, thereby laying the groundwork for social and economic improvements. Microsoft is deeply committed to promoting digital inclusion and employability skills for youth in the Middle East; we will continue to expand our Citizenship efforts in the region. We are very pleased to be part of this summit to discuss how we can use CSR to help create vital self-sustaining links and strengthen local communities.'

Kosta Petrov, Senior Conference Manager, IIR Middle East said, 'Responsible business should be at the core of a company's programmes and strategies, not a bolt-on to operations. Organizations such as Microsoft have a long history of community engagement which provides a framework for sustainability when embedded into corporate strategy and helps create social and economic opportunities in communities across the region. We are pleased to have their support at this event.'

Microsoft's flagship Citizenship programs, Partners in Learning, and Unlimited Potential work in partnership with governments, industry leaders and community organizations to offer skills training ranging from essential computer skills to the most advanced professional training and certifications. By 2010, through innovative technologies and partnerships, Microsoft plans to provide Information Technology and Technology (ICT) skills training to a quarter billion people who were previously underserved by technology.