IE Foundation Builds Bridges Between Theory and Practice through Research on Social Entrepreneurship and Impact Investing
IE Foundation continues to drive academic and social impact by supporting research initiatives led by IE faculty.
In its commitment to promoting excellence in education, research, and social advancement, IE Foundation acts as a catalyst for research projects that address critical societal issues. These projects, driven by the Foundation in collaboration with corporate partners, are developed in research centers, chairs, observatories, and other spaces dedicated to the generation and dissemination of knowledge, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and its practical applications.
A notable example of this mission is the work of Rachida Justo, professor at IE University and Director of the Impact Bridge – IE Chair. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Justo has demonstrated a strong commitment to social entrepreneurship and impact investing, leading initiatives which promote investment models that prioritize both financial success and social wellbeing.
Under her leadership, the Chair, supported by IE Foundation and Impact Bridge, fosters a collaborative approach that connects researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors to develop concrete and effective action frameworks. This effort results in the co-creation of knowledge and drives meaningful change in the fields of social entrepreneurship, gender-inclusive sustainability, and impact investing, positioning IE University as a leader in these areas.
Among the standout projects of the Chair is the case study of Moda Re-, a social enterprise that is revolutionizing the fashion industry in Spain by applying a circular economy model that promotes social inclusion through job creation for vulnerable individuals. The Chair focuses on understanding and supporting the company’s efforts to transform the fashion sector. This project not only highlights the potential of circular economy but also educates students and the broader community on the transformative power of a systemic approach to social entrepreneurship in fostering lasting change toward sustainability.
More recently, the Chair organized the “Destination Impact: From Inspiration to Implementation” symposium, supported by Meta, which brought together experts from the impact investment ecosystem to examine the sector’s key challenges, blending practical experience with academic knowledge. Additionally, in 2024, it published an article in the Journal of Business Ventures Insights on ‘Impact-Oriented Value Creation’, aimed at helping impact investment professionals to drive positive change more effectively.
IE Foundation’s support ensures that Dr. Justo’s research not only enriches the academic realm but also generates practical tools that transform industries and promote sustainability.