Social Return (SROI): Why Positive Impact Is the New Business Standard
What is Social Return (SROI) and Why Now?
In a world where profit is no longer the only goal, Social Return on Investment (SROI) is gaining more attention. It’s an approach where businesses are expected to create not only economic, but also social and environmental value. Governments are increasingly asking companies to generate societal impact, for example through public tenders that include SROI requirements.
Social Return is about giving back to society, for instance by:
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Creating jobs for people with barriers to the labor market
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Purchasing sustainably from social enterprises
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Contributing to local initiatives or social causes
The Benefits of Social Return for Companies
Social Return is not a burden, but a strategic advantage. Companies that engage in socially responsible business practices can benefit in many ways:
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Stronger reputation: Customers increasingly choose brands that create positive impact
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Engaged and loyal employees: Working for a purpose-driven company motivates and retains talent
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Business growth: More and more tenders require SROI, creating new opportunities
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Measurable impact: From fair employment to environmentally conscious choices, your organization makes a visible difference
Collaborating with Purpose-Led Organizations: This is How You Make Impact
An effective way to meet your SROI obligations is to partner with social enterprises. These organizations are dedicated to solving social and environmental challenges.
Examples of such collaborations include:
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Organizations that employ people with a distance to the labor market
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Suppliers operating based on fair trade and inclusivity
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Companies that produce sustainably with attention to both people and the planet
SROI is not just forward-looking policy — it is an opportunity to make your organization stronger, more relevant, and more meaningful.
