This summer we launched our second survey of the Sorenson Global Impact Leaders network. To engage members of the Global Impact Leaders network with a more fulsome approach, we took a pivot in our methodology, focusing first on a qualitative survey to gather the opinions and directives of the roughly 90 members of the group; we then developed the full survey questionnaire distributed in the spring of 2024. By first reaching out to members of the network, some of the most important voices and thought leaders in the global impact investing community, we hoped to establish a survey framework that would be broadly resonant and provide the impact community with a focused guide for the future. We are grateful for the large number of members who participated in the survey construction and to all who participated in the final survey.

As you will read in the following review of the survey results, we believe we achieved those higher goals. While a wide-ranging set of views was expected from this passionate group, there is also a clear consensus on the most important issues facing the globe today, and a more diverse though still strongly supported set of “next most important” issues.

Unsurprisingly, the impact issue generating the widest consensus is a need for climate change action, with over 67% of respondents indicating “Affordable and Clean Energy” as the Sustainable Development Goal which will see the most progress in the next decade. Equally significant was the consensus response regarding the limited influence of those voices opposed to ESG – 69% of respondents indicated that the mainstreaming of ESG nonetheless remains positive for impact investing. Regulatory imperatives were the next issue with the broadest support – more than a third of respondents believe that collaboration among policymakers and the private sector is imperative, while a similar percentage felt regulatory change to facilitate investment was critical. Finally, in support of both of those objectives, respondents felt that to scale the reach of impact, the impact investment community requires improved messaging and continued proof of concept.

You will see a discussion of the full survey results in the report that follows; we would also be glad to share the full results with you. We encourage you to read the report and as always, to share your thoughts and impressions.

Rob Brown
Senior Fellow, Sorenson Impact Institute