No data, No deal? Impact investing could risk entrenching inequality if not monitored

12:00-14:00 BST UK

A recent report from the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment has raised crucial questions about the unintended consequences of impact investing. While often recognised as a solution to social and environmental challenges, impact investing could risk reinforcing inequality.

In this webinar we will bring together key voices to unpack the findings of this report and discuss how to navigate the delicate balance between impact and fairness. Dr. Edward Mungai -partner and lead consultant at Impact Africa Consulting Limited, and a recognised expert in sustainability and impact strategies, will lead the discussion alongside George Carew-Jones and Dr. Alex Money, co-authors of this report. Together, they will explore:

• The key findings of the Smith School's report: How impact investing could inadvertently entrench inequality
• Critical risks and opportunities in today's impact investing landscape
• The role of investors, companies, and policymakers in ensuring investments benefit all stakeholders
• Practical solutions and strategies for creating truly equitable impact investments
• Case studies from Africa and other regions where impact investing has succeeded or fallen short in addressing inequality
• Insights into how to reshape investment strategies to avoid widening economic and social gaps

Participants will gain a deep understanding of the risks highlighted in the report and learn how to align impact investing with inclusive and equitable outcomes. This webinar is designed to offer actionable insights for impact investors, sustainability leaders, policymakers, and all professionals interested in socially responsible investing.

Who should attend:

• Impact investors and financial institutions
• Social entrepreneurs and NGOs
• Corporate sustainability leaders
• Policymakers and regulators
• Academics and researchers in sustainable finance

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional thinking about impact investing and explores how it can become a tool for reducing, rather than exacerbating, inequality.

Speakers: 

Dr Alex Money, Director, Innovative Infrastructure Investment Programme, Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment 

George Carew-Jones, Research Associate in Sustainable Investment, Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment

Dr Edward Mungai, Lead Consultant and Partner, Impact Africa Consulting Ltd