Home > Development Management > Taking a Realistic Approach to Impact Investing

Taking a Realistic Approach to Impact Investing

1 January 2011
Case Study
Publisher : Innovations: Technology, Governance, Globalisation

16281

This article, presented as a case narrative of E+Co’s experience, delves into the practicalities of impact investing in energy enterprises within developing countries. It showcases how venture investing can generate both positive social impact and financial returns. The case study highlights the importance of leveraging traditional venture capital approaches to create sustainable solutions in the clean energy sector, drawing lessons from E+Co’s extensive work. It offers insights into navigating the complexities of social capital markets while pursuing environmental and social objectives.

Author(s) :

Katherine Milligan, Mirjam Schöning

Yes

No ratings yet

Rate your experience

Get in touch with authors

Key topics

Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action, Innovative Finance/ Blended Finance

Also found in

Financial Stewardship, Sustainability, & Accountability

Share

Join Our Newsletter

Explore More Articles

The New Education Philanthropy: Politics, Policy and Reform

This book explores the evolving landscape of education philanthropy, focusing on the interplay of politics, policy, and reform efforts. It examines how new philanthropic initiatives are influencing educational systems, curriculum development, and school reform strategies. The authors analyze the motivations, approaches, and impacts of these philanthropic interventions, often highlighting tensions between private funding and public education goals. The book provides a critical perspective on the opportunities and challenges presented by the increasing role of private philanthropy in shaping educational policy and outcomes.

3 September 2025

FinMin may favour CSR monies to flow into Social Impact Bonds

This article from Hindu Business Line reports on the potential inclination of India’s Finance Ministry to allow Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to be directed towards Social Impact Bonds (SIBs). The move could significantly boost funding for social development projects by leveraging private sector contributions. It discusses the implications of such a policy for governance and the broader landscape of development impact bonds in India, highlighting how this synergy could enhance social outcomes and financial innovation.

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.

3 September 2025

Blended finance in the SDG Era

This document summarizes key discussions from a UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) workshop focused on blended finance in the era of the SDGs. It captures shared challenges and opportunities identified by participants from governments, the UN system, civil society, and the private sector. The report outlines common issues, including the critical need for better impact measurement tools, effective risk management strategies, and enhanced institutional capacity. It concludes with recommended actions to better integrate and mainstream blended finance approaches into national SDG strategies.