Social Impact Investing – A Discussion

Reform Scotland hosted a discussion about the revolutionary role social impact investing could play in tackling some of the nation’s most intractable social problems.

Social impact investing (SII) is an increasingly popular model across the world – an innovative partnership which delivers funding for social good, where none is available through traditional public financing. It also offers a good deal for the taxpayer, with payment reliant on successful outcomes.

Speaking at the event, which was chaired by Reform Scotland Director Chris Deerin, was:

• Kate Forbes MSP,  Cabinet Secretary for Finance & the Economy. 
• Murdo Fraser MSP,  Scottish Conservative Covid Recovery Spokesperson.
• Alastair Davis, Chief Executive of Social Investment Scotland, a provider of investment for social enterprises
• Jill McGrath, a social entrepreneur who managed Scotland’s first SII project
• Ian Marr, Chief Executive of The Growth Partnership, which delivers SII services to communities.

 A recent report published by Reform Scotland, Investing for Good: Why Social Impact Investing is right for Scotland, made the case for greater use of the SII model.

The discussion explored how SII might be deployed throughout Scotland to address community problems such as homelessness, youth unemployment, drug addiction and more.

The discussion took place before an audience over Zoom on 23 November.

Watch the event below: