In today’s world, businesses are expected to go beyond profits and contribute to society in meaningful ways. This shift has made social investment a critical part of corporate strategies. Social investment refers to the allocation of resources, financial, human, and intellectual, into initiatives that generate positive outcomes for communities and the environment. But investing is only half the story. Organizations are increasingly asked: What difference did it make? This is where the concept of social return on investment (SROI) comes in.
What is Social Investment?
Social investment is more than traditional philanthropy. While donations meet immediate needs, social investment focuses on creating long-term, sustainable value. For corporates, this may mean funding education programs, supporting healthcare access, or enabling livelihood initiatives. For NGOs, it’s about building solutions that address root causes, not just symptoms.
When done strategically, social investment strengthens trust with stakeholders and aligns business objectives with societal good.
Why Measure Social Return on Investment (SROI)?
Social return on investment provides a framework to quantify the value generated from social investments. Instead of only tracking inputs (money spent) or outputs (number of beneficiaries), SROI helps organizations measure outcomes and impact in monetary terms.
As CSR and sustainability landscapes evolve, companies and NGOs cannot afford to stop at making social investments, they must also demonstrate the value created. Measuring social return on investment ensures that every rupee spent contributes to lasting, meaningful change.
At BlueSkyCSR, we help organisations close this very gap. As a certified Social Impact Assessment Organisation with ICMAI and a recognised Social Auditors Organisation, we bring the expertise to design, measure, and communicate SROI in a way that builds both credibility and impact.
Whether it’s quantifying social value for investors, ensuring compliance with CSR regulations, BlueSkyCSR enables stakeholders to see not just the spend, but the story of change it creates.
Contact us today to see how we can support your SROI journey.
