Social Value Aotearoa – Measuring What Matters

Social Value Aotearoa was established in 2014 with a clear and enduring purpose: to champion better decisions for people and communities by ensuring that social value sits at the heart of how organisations design, deliver and evaluate their impact.

As Aotearoa’s national member network of Social Value International we are part of a global movement committed to shifting the way the world accounts for value ensuring the voices, experiences and outcomes of people and whānau are truly reflected in decision making.

Rooted in kaupapa Māori values and the principles of mana-enhancing practice, we work alongside iwi, community organisations, government agencies, social enterprises and impact-driven teams to build capability, strengthen evidence, and embed meaningful, outcomes-focused approaches across Aotearoa.

Our work includes:
  • Providing accredited training in Social Return on Investment (SROI) and outcomes measurement
  • Supporting organisations to develop impact frameworks, measurement systems, and outcomes-focused strategies
  • Driving thought leadership, research, and innovation in the measurement of social impact
  • Convening national and international networks, events, and communities of practice to share knowledge and uplift capability
  • Advocating for better commissioning for outcomes across the social sector
  • Together we strive for a future where decisions create sustainable, equitable and positive change and where the true value of people, whānau and communities is recognised.

Our Director – Jo Nicholson

Social Value Aotearoa is proudly led by our Director, Jo Nicholson an experienced leader in social impact, outcomes measurement and systems-level change. Jo brings deep sector knowledge, a commitment to integrity in practice and a strong belief in the power of collective capability to transform outcomes across Aotearoa. Under her leadership Social Value Aotearoa continues to grow its influence locally and internationally, ensuring Aotearoa’s voice is represented at the global Social Value International table.