Innovations in Measuring and Scaling Impact: Insights from the Partnership Conference (Part 2)

In Part 1, we explored how the Partnership Conference showcased the power of human connection and collaboration to drive social impact. In Part 2, we’ll focus on how data, technology, and strategic innovation are transforming the way organizations measure their impact and scale their efforts. These sessions emphasized that it’s no longer enough to do good—we need to demonstrate how and why our work is making a difference and find ways to expand that impact.

The Future of Impact Data

Jason Saul and Lauren Ott of the Impact Genome Registry and Leanne Nicolle, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Toronto, led a powerful session on the importance of evaluation data in the social sector. Saul described the growing shift toward outcomes-driven measurement, where organizations move beyond activity-based metrics (like the number of people served) to focus on the actual change created.

Saul and Ott emphasized the democratization of impact data through tools like registries, which allow organizations to align their measurement practices with global standards and increase transparency. By embracing a shared language around outcomes, nonprofits and social enterprises can better communicate their value to funders and partners, leading to more meaningful and sustainable collaborations.

Nicolle added a personal perspective, explaining how robust impact measurement has helped Big Brothers Big Sisters Toronto not only secure funding but also refine programs to better serve its mission. Their session reinforced that data isn’t just about accountability—it’s a tool for storytelling, growth, and ultimately, greater impact.

Winning with Climate Solutions

David Luba, Co-founder of Veritree and Tentree, shared a compelling vision of how innovation and partnerships can drive climate action. Veritree is transforming environmental restoration efforts by combining blockchain technology with real-time impact tracking.

Luba described how Veritree’s platform has been used to restore ecosystems worldwide, offering transparency and accountability to funders while empowering local communities. For example, in Senegal, partnerships with local farmers have not only restored degraded lands but also provided economic opportunities through reforestation work.

His message was clear: partnerships that address climate challenges can simultaneously create social and economic benefits. Veritree’s approach—focusing on measurable outcomes while building trust with local stakeholders—provides a roadmap for scaling environmental solutions.

The Year of the Impact Mindset
Sona Khosla, Chief Impact Officer at Benevity, presented key trends shaping the future of social impact, with a focus on how companies are embedding innovation and data into their CSR strategies. Two trends stood out: the integration of AI into impact practices and the rise of outcomes-driven philanthropy.

Khosla highlighted the need for nonprofits to stay informed and prepared, with many organizations supporting skills-building and AI adoption through grants and training programs.

Like the folks at Impact Genome, Khosla emphasized the shift from reporting impact with traditional metrics like dollars and volunteer hours to outcome-focused measurement. Tools like Benevity, can simplify impact reporting and reduce the administrative burden on nonprofits.

Khosla’s insights underscored the importance of integrating technology and data to elevate CSR initiatives from isolated acts of goodwill to business-wide strategies for systemic change.

Conclusion: Scaling What Works and Measuring What Matters
The sessions at the Partnership Conference made it clear: innovation in data and technology is no longer optional—it’s essential for scaling impact and demonstrating value. 

As we look to the future, it’s evident that collaboration across sectors, coupled with a commitment to transparency and measurable outcomes, will define the next chapter of social impact. By adopting these innovations, we can create lasting change, proving not only that doing good matters but that it can also be done smarter and more effectively.