History and Purpose

In 2022, we conducted the inaugural Sorenson Global Impact Leaders Survey as an endeavor to understand the challenges and opportunities these Members saw for our world. The 2022 survey delved into how we define impact, the current state of impact, and the current trends within the field.

Notably, the survey found that challenges to defining impact include (1) using a terminology precise enough while remaining comprehensible to an overall population and (2) creating a definition that encompasses the enormous range of efforts for positive social or environmental change. 46% of respondents expressed overall dissatisfaction with the current state of the industry, while 34% expressed overall satisfaction. Yet, close to 70% were optimistic about the possibility of delivering positive outcomes and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Respondents also indicated concern over the growing negative association with terms like Environmental, Social & Governance efforts (ESG) and the push against ESG investing, particularly within the American landscape. Finally, the critical opportunities noted in the 2022 report were (1) embedding diversity into every facet of the work, and (2) the need for credible, broadly-accepted standards for measuring impact.

Rather than distributing the survey again in 2023, the Institute took a more qualitative approach to understanding the factors affecting impact. Institute leadership held a series of three Network Conversations with Members around the world. Members participated in a guided discussion about the purpose of the network, how to maximize the impact of the work being done by the individuals and organizations represented, and the future of the impact field – the challenges, the opportunities, the shifts, and the initiatives. Based on these discussions, the 2024 survey was redesigned to reflect the conversations most necessary and noteworthy.

The 2024 survey redesign eliminated or condensed questions and increased focus on three key areas: first, the SDGs; second, public policy & impact; and third, impact investing. Both qualitative and quantitative questions across these three topics provide insights into how current Members feel about the work being done, the realities that need to be faced, and the keys to a more successful future.