The Motivations and Practices of Impact Assessment in Socially Responsible Investing

This research note investigates impact assessment practices within the French Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) industry. Based on interviews, observation, surveys, and documentary evidence, it contrasts SRI's motivations for impact assessment with those of impact investing. While SRI aims for sustainable development with financial savvy, impact investing prioritizes demonstrable societal impact. The study reveals significant differences in approaches, creating a distance between the two communities. It identifies who is interested in impact assessment in SRI, why they seek it, and its practical manifestation, suggesting implications for SRI, impact investing, and accounting fields.