Epistemic Network and Corporate Culture: The Case of Oxfam Trailwalker

This chapter develops the concept of an “epistemic network” to theorize the norm-building functions of team-based charity sports events in shaping corporate cultures. An epistemic network refers broadly to the informal relational networks that produce norms and behavioral expectations, sustained and developed through continuous participation in collaborative activities, and gradually expand their influence across organizations. This chapter draws on the case of the Oxfam Trailwalker event in Hong Kong to demonstrate the process of producing an epistemic network that transforms and strengthens the corporate culture for good.