ABSTRACT
This chapter develops the interface between charities and social purpose organisations on the one hand and social investors on the other. It provides a platform to a range of business, charitable and institutional commentators who can talk about this space, historically and contemporarily, for and against: not always comfortably, but poignantly and constructively. If the readers are a charity finance practitioner or student, the chapter provides a sound footing to develop a deeper understanding of social investment and how it can be used as a powerful tool to help create social impact in a sustainable way. Whilst the people have seen the growth of socially focused organisations in general, charities specifically have had a hard time in the twenty-first century. They can no longer rely on donations and grants as guaranteed income streams for the future. The chapter reflects the fact that social investment in its current incarnation is relatively new and “rules” are still evolving in light of experience.
