Scaling Social Impact

Explore how organisations can amplify social change by integrating intervention design, governance, systems management, collaborations and partnerships, and technology to achieve impactful and scalable outcomes.

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Why the Social Sector Is The Next Place To BeBlog

30 May 2022

Why the Social Sector Is The Next Place To Be

This article outlines the dynamic opportunities emerging in the social sector. It discusses how increasing investments in social innovation and purpose-driven work are transforming career landscapes and creating impactful roles. The post highlights trends that make the sector increasingly attractive for professionals seeking meaningful, transformative work and outlines the benefits of a career dedicated to achieving social change.

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Case Study

Development Impact Bonds support quality education in India

This case study from the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation highlights how Development Impact Bonds (DIBs) are being utilized to support quality education initiatives in India. It showcases how these innovative financing tools incentivize outcome-driven results, aligning private investment with sustainable development goals in the education sector. The study illustrates the DIB mechanism’s potential to improve learning outcomes and increase access to quality education for underserved populations by focusing on measurable impact.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2011

Impact Investing: Roots & Branches

This article explores the origins and development of impact investing, an emerging field where private investors aim to generate both financial returns and positive social/environmental impact. It discusses the growing optimism around business as a force for good in the developing world and how impact investing offers a new approach to addressing global challenges that exceed government and donor capacities. The piece highlights the blend of financial, social, and environmental objectives in this form of investment.
Case Study
  • 2 January 2022

Impact Investing in Disadvantaged Urban Areas

This paper investigates impact investing’s role in the development of disadvantaged urban areas. It explores how targeted investments can stimulate economic growth, create opportunities, and address social challenges in underserved city regions. The study provides insights into the mechanisms through which impact capital can drive positive transformation and contribute to more equitable urban development.
Case Study
  • 6 January 2017

Impact Investing at the Base of the Pyramid: Unitus Seed Fund

This case study focuses on Unitus Seed Fund’s approach to social impact investing at the base of the pyramid. It illustrates how the fund identifies and supports enterprises that deliver essential goods and services to low-income populations. The study highlights the strategies employed to achieve both financial viability and deep social impact in challenging market environments, providing a practical example of inclusive finance.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2015

Impact Investing as a “basic Innovation” for the Global Economy and Finance System Post-crisis Transformation

This paper posits impact investing as a “basic innovation” crucial for the post-crisis transformation of the global economy and finance system. It analyses how this approach can contribute to development and modernization by addressing systemic challenges that contributed to financial instability. The study emphasizes the transformative potential of impact investing to reshape financial markets towards more sustainable and equitable outcomes.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2016

Lessons From a Development Impact Bond

This article shares lessons learned from a Development Impact Bond (DIB), highlighting how outcome-based financing can drive innovation and results in international development. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and a culture of learning within service providers. The case study discusses challenges such as accurate data acquisition and setting realistic targets, underscoring the critical role of strong leadership and incentives. It advocates for a thoughtful and rigorous approach to ensure DIBs deliver intended social impact at scale.
Case Study
  • 4 January 2011

Impact Investing: Transforming How We Make Money While Making a Difference

This book defines impact investing as a transformative vehicle for delivering “blended value” across the investment spectrum. Written by leaders in the field, it provides a comprehensive overview of this emerging industry for investors, funders, and social entrepreneurs. The book features illustrative success stories, explores wide-ranging applications, and discusses entrepreneurial opportunities, emphasizing how impact investing can address critical social and environmental issues while generating financial returns.
Case Study
  • 2 January 2011

Innovations: Technology, Governance, Globalisation

This article explores the origins and development of impact investing, an emerging field where private investors aim to generate both financial returns and positive social/environmental impact. It discusses the growing optimism around business as a force for good in the developing world and how impact investing offers a new approach to addressing global challenges that exceed government and donor capacities. The piece highlights the blend of financial, social, and environmental objectives in this form of investment.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2021

Impact Investing and Sustainable Market Transformations: the Role of Venture Capital Funds

This article investigates the role of venture capital funds in driving sustainable market transformations through impact investing. It explores how these funds contribute to sustainable development by financing innovative companies with both financial and social objectives, distinct from traditional philanthropy. The paper analyses the mechanisms through which venture capital can foster systemic change, promoting a more ethical and environmentally responsible economy.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2012

Impact Investing: Harnessing Capital Markets to Solve Problems at Scale

This paper explores how impact investing can harness capital markets to solve societal problems at scale. It discusses the development of the impact investing industry and the role of various institutions in facilitating this growth. The article emphasizes the potential of market-based solutions to address complex social and environmental challenges by mobilizing significant financial resources.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2015

Impact Investing and Inclusive Business Development in Africa: a Research Agenda

This research agenda explores the role of impact investing and impact funds in fostering inclusive business development within bottom-of-the-pyramid markets in Africa. It investigates how these financial mechanisms can support socially responsible investments and contribute to development finance in the region. The paper outlines key research questions to advance understanding of impact investing’s potential for driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Africa.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2018

Effectiveness of Impact-investing at the Base of the Pyramid: an Empirical Study From India

This empirical study investigates the effectiveness of impact investing at the Base of the Pyramid (BoP) in India. It examines how impact investments in social enterprises contribute to socio-economic development among rural and semi-urban populations. The research, based on case studies, identifies key operating principles for successful impact investing at the BoP, including affordability, innovation, cost control, local engagement, stakeholder management, local skill-building, dynamic leadership, and scalability. The findings offer valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers aiming to leverage impact investing for inclusive growth and sustainable development in emerging markets.
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