This framework by Nesta sets out five levels of evidence to help impact investors assess the effectiveness and credibility of social interventions. Ranging from anecdotal feedback to randomized controlled trials, the standards provide clarity on how different kinds of evidence can be used in funding decisions. The guide promotes accountability, learning, and transparency in impact investing by encouraging organizations to systematically collect and report outcomes. It also helps funders determine proportional evidence requirements based on investment size and risk appetite, fostering a more rigorous and data-informed impact investment ecosystem.

This case study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) focuses on social finance specifically for the social economy. It investigates various sources, tools, and mechanisms of social finance that can support Social Economy Organizations (SEOs). The paper likely explores how these financial instruments can enable SEOs to achieve their social missions, grow their impact, and contribute to sustainable development. It provides insights into tailoring financial solutions to the unique needs of the social economy sector.

This case study examines the challenges and opportunities associated with impact evaluation in early-stage impact investing. It discusses various assessment methodologies and their applicability to nascent ventures seeking to generate both financial and social returns. The paper provides insights into how early-stage investors can effectively measure and demonstrate the impact of their investments, fostering accountability and learning in a rapidly evolving field.

This article explores intermediary perceptions of investment readiness within the UK social investment market. It examines the challenges faced by social enterprises and nonprofits in attracting investment and the role of intermediaries in preparing them for funding. The authors delve into factors influencing investment readiness, such as financial literacy and capacity, and discuss how perceptions of risk and social impact measurement affect investment decisions in the UK’s social finance ecosystem.

This paper examines barriers faced by nonprofits in engaging with social impact investing (SII), arguing that demand is not yet meeting supply. It conceptualises four parameters shaping SII participation: investment scale, place embeddedness, innovation need, and intermediary configuration. Based on interviews, the study finds significant barriers include lack of market knowledge, inadequate financial literacy, and challenges in measuring social impacts. Nonprofits also perceive a greater emphasis on financial over social returns from investors.