More Insight with Better Data: Practical Social Impact Measurement for Microfinance
Measuring social impact is becoming more important for microfinance institutions. However, it is not always easy to choose the right indicators, collect useful data and report results without creating extra work.
This webinar will look at practical ways to measure social impact. Participants will learn how to turn social goals into clear results and how to collect data that can be used for both reporting and improving their work.
Based on the CEB SIM Toolkit, the session will provide practical guidance on choosing indicators, using existing data and gathering client feedback to better understand and demonstrate impact.
What You’ll Learn
During the webinar, participants will explore:
- Key international social impact frameworks and standards relevant to microfinance
- How to select indicators that align with institutional objectives and reporting needs
- The differences between outputs, outcomes and impacts, with practical examples
- Common challenges and pitfalls in impact measurement
- Approaches to building a balanced set of social performance indicators
- Practical methods for collecting and managing impact data efficiently
- How to use existing management information systems (MIS) and operational data for measurement purposes
- Techniques for gathering outcomes and impact data through client surveys and feedback mechanisms
- Practical tools developed through the SIM Toolkit, including the Data Mapping Tool
Who should attend?
This webinar is intended for practitioners seeking practical, operational guidance on social impact measurement, as well as professionals working in:
- ESG and sustainability
- Social performance and impact management
- Impact investing
- Monitoring, evaluation and learning
- Product development
- Strategy and business development
- Senior management interested in strengthening social impact measurement
Our Experts
Davide Castellani PhD – Independent Advisor in Inclusive Finance
University of Bergamo, Italy
Davide Castellani is an independent advisor and Associate Professor at University of Bergamo, working at the intersection of microfinance practice, inclusive finance strategy, and applied research. He has supported microfinance providers, networks, and development partners across Europe and multiple emerging markets, including assignments for the CEB, the EC, the EMN, the AFI, the UfM, the KfW, the IDB, the CAF, and the FSD Kenya.
His work covers practical support to institutions on client insights and segmentation, product and delivery-channel innovation, responsible finance, training and peer learning, and building evidence that helps institutions make better decisions. His current focus includes social impact measurement, financial health, and inclusive approaches to gender and climate-related challenges.
Diana Bialus – Microfinance and Impact Measurement Consultant, Romania
With nearly 20 years of experience in development finance, Ms. Bialus has worked with a broad range of institutions, from microfinance providers to commercial banks, supporting more than 30 financial institutions across Europe, Africa, and Asia. Her expertise includes strategy development, credit process optimization, micro and small loan scoring, client segmentation, product development, and the implementation of environmental and social management systems.
More recently, she has led the design and refinement of impact assessment methodologies and supported the strengthening and coordination of monitoring and reporting systems for a leading European microfinance provider. She is currently co-leading the enhancement of the Social Impact Measurement (SIM) Toolkit developed under the umbrella of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB).
Ms. Bialus holds a BA in International Business from the Academy of Economic Studies in Bucharest and an MBA from IE Business School in Madrid.
Our partners
