The future of data ownership: An uncommon research agenda

This article explores the future of data ownership, particularly the concept of "data commons" as a response to data monopolies by Big Tech. It reframes data commons as a social interaction problem rather than purely regulatory design. The research agenda suggests incorporating non-Western legal traditions, studying existing data governance relations, and prioritizing social and political aspects over purely technological solutions. The paper advocates for building data commons to steward data as a democratic medium, essential for legitimizing data governance and realizing societal benefits.

How corporations overcome issue illegitimacy and issue equivocality to address social welfare: The role of the social change agent

This article explores how corporations overcome the challenges of issue illegitimacy and equivocality when addressing social welfare. These concepts refer to the stigma and ambiguity often surrounding social issues that fall outside traditional corporate missions. The author proposes that embedding internal "social change agents " within companies can help navigate these barriers. These individuals act as champions who build legitimacy internally and externally, mobilize resources, and enable organizations to act decisively in socially beneficial ways. The paper contributes to institutional theory by showing how corporate actors adopt social causes and offers a strategic model for engaging in complex social change efforts.

Blending Public and Private Finance

This World Bank note explores blended finance, which combines public and private funds, highlighting its various forms and potential pitfalls like market distortion and inappropriate risk allocation. It emphasizes that public finance can bring different risk appetites and time horizons, structuring assets to meet private sector profiles. The paper suggests blended finance can make marginally profitable projects attractive, acting as a stepping stone to comprehensive reforms and demonstrating commercial viability in risky sectors.

Impact Bonds Primer

This primer offers a foundational understanding of impact bonds, detailing their processes and mechanisms. It serves as an introductory guide for stakeholders interested in this innovative financing approach. The document outlines the key stages of an impact bond, from design and contracting to implementation and outcome measurement, providing a clear and concise overview for those looking to engage with or learn about these results-based financing instruments.

Understanding Social Impact Bonds

This working paper provides a comprehensive overview of Social Impact Bonds (SIBs), exploring their design, implementation, and potential as an innovative financing mechanism for social programs. It delves into the regulatory frameworks and stakeholder involvement necessary for successful SIB initiatives, and examines various interventions where SIBs have been applied. The paper offers insights into how SIBs can link funding to outcomes, thereby promoting greater efficiency and accountability in public service delivery.

Insight: Blended finance in the national planning process

This Deloitte insight explores the integration of blended finance into national planning processes for development. It examines how governments can strategically combine public and private capital to achieve national development goals, particularly in areas requiring significant investment. The piece highlights the importance of effective governance and collaboration between various stakeholders to maximize the impact of blended finance initiatives and ensure alignment with broader development strategies.

India Impact Investing Handook

This handbook offers a comprehensive overview of the impact investing market in India, covering various dimensions such as equity, debt, gender-lens investing, climate-tech, and blended finance. It aims to provide a bird’s-eye perspective of investment opportunities and outlines major trends shaping the Indian impact investment environment. The handbook also provides specific recommendations, making it a valuable resource for understanding the social sector and social finance landscape in India.

The assessment of water use and reuse through reported data: A US case study

This US case study, focusing on the Wabash River Watershed, assesses water use and reuse through reported data to inform sustainable water resource management. It highlights the challenge of fragmented data across state and federal entities for holistic analysis. The study reveals that during low-flow months, treated wastewater discharges significantly contribute to streamflow, indicating substantial unplanned reuse. The findings underscore the importance of better data documentation for water resources planning and the potential ecological impacts of intentional water reuse during critical periods.

How Data Science saves lives and helps combat obesity?

Data science plays a critical role in saving lives and combating obesity by providing insights for effective interventions. This article discusses how analyzing vast datasets—including patient demographics, lifestyle, dietary habits, and genetic predispositions—helps identify risk factors and predict obesity trends. Machine learning models can personalize weight management programs, track progress, and recommend tailored exercise and nutrition plans. By leveraging these data-driven approaches, public health initiatives and clinical practices can optimize strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment, ultimately improving population health outcomes and reducing the burden of obesity-related diseases.

A good investment?: Philanthropy and the marketing of race in an urban public school

This book examines how urban public schools, particularly those with minority and disadvantaged students, engage in "marketing of race" to secure philanthropic funding. It questions whether competition for financing perpetuates poverty and stereotypes, arguing that the appearance of success and equity through philanthropy can mask and maintain stark inequalities. The author offers a firsthand look at how social change in education is aligned with social entrepreneurship, suggesting that such philanthropic approaches might inadvertently reinforce race and class hierarchies, thereby inhibiting true democracy and justice in education.
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