University’s social impact credentials recognised

University of Northampton’s (UON) Changemaker ethos and commitment to doing good work at home and further afield has been recognised by a leading financial institution dedicated to social impact in the UK.

Big Society Capital profile UON’s social impact credentials on their website, showcasing the University’s work around social investment.

The University made its first investment in social capital in 2011 with a £200,000 equity investment in Goodwill Solutions, a local logistics enterprise that trains, employs and supports ex-offenders.

Since then, the University has gone on to become the first ever university in the UK to be awarded AshokaU status – meaning UON is internationally recognised for its commitment to social innovation and entrepreneurship – and the estimated joint value created across UON social impact activities stands at £52m.

Richard Hazenberg, Professor of Social Innovation at the University, said: “Having our name writ loud and clear with Big Society Capital is a testament to all of the excellent work undertaken across the University during the past decade.

“Of course, this information only surmises everyone’s great work and there are countless excellent examples I could mention of how we have added value to our communities and the great projects yet to come, but I would like to say a big thank you to everyone.”