Social Investments
The University investments have the opportunity to be a force for good.
In addition to the integration of Environmental Social and Governance issues in our investment, the University has committed to invest up to £8 million in social investments from treasury funds for the benefit of society. By the end of 2019-20, the University has committed £3.75 million of this fund, this includes £1 million in the Social Investment Scotland Social Growth Fund II and £1 million in social and sustainable capital.
The Fund’s thematic priorities address issues related to poverty, homelessness, access to education and youth employment. Current investments to date include: The Big Issue Social Enterprise Fund II; The Big Issue Power Up Scotland; Prosper Social Finance; and the Social Investment Scotland Social Growth Fund II.
Power Up Scotland
The Power Up Scotland programme, a lending scheme managed by Big Issue Invest which offers investment, support and mentorship to early stage social ventures across Scotland, has supported several social ventures to being able to respond to the Covid-19 crisis. This included provision of meals to high-risk individuals, supporting disabled beneficiaries, helping those experiencing homelessness into accommodation and providing online counselling.
The University has invested £500,000 in the scheme, with further investment coming from four other partners: the Scottish Government, Aberdeen Standard Investments, Places for People, Experian and Brodies.
At the 2019 Green Gown Awards Ceremony, the University was recognised for its leadership as the winner in the ‘Money for Good’ category.