Conducted by Move Social, the study analyzes Fundo Vale’s contribution to organizations that structure networks, provide capacity building and connect entrepreneurs, investors and partners to drive impact businesses and initiatives
“Strengthening to Transform,” a study conducted by Move Social, shows how Fundo Vale’s support for impact ecosystem enablers between 2020 and 2025 contributed to strengthening these organizations’ institutional capacities. The findings show that more structured and better-prepared organizations are better able to support entrepreneurs, connect stakeholders and mobilize resources to generate positive social and environmental impact.
The progress observed includes the development of organizational capabilities, expanded networks and strategic alliances, the adoption of diversity-focused practices and work that is more closely aligned with local realities. The study also highlights challenges for the ecosystem, such as increasing the resources available to support these organizations’ sustainability, encouraging collaboration among different stakeholders and deepening their presence in local communities, especially in the Amazon.
The research was carried out with ecosystem enablers with different profiles, including institutions that directly support entrepreneurs and others that work to connect ecosystem stakeholders, produce knowledge and advance strategic priorities. During the period, Fundo Vale supported 51 ecosystem enablers, 13 of which participated in the study.
GIMPACT, Fundo Vale’s impact measurement and management model, was used to structure the study. This model organizes indicators and the collection and analysis of data to support evidence-based decision-making.
“Generating impact consistently requires looking not only at businesses but also at the organizations that help create the conditions for these enterprises to develop. The study reinforces the fact that enabling organizations are essential infrastructure for the ecosystem: they connect stakeholders, train entrepreneurs, translate local needs and support solutions that can generate social and environmental benefits in the long term,” says Juliana Vilhena, Fundo Vale’s strategy, management and impact manager.
Patient capital, flexibility and coordination to expand impact
Fundo Vale has used different strategies, including long-term support, greater flexibility in the use of financial resources, technical support and incentives for impact measurement. In some cases, Fundo Vale has also provided patient capital, grants and contributions to structure innovative financial mechanisms that reduce initial risks and create more favorable conditions for attracting financial institutions, investors and partners.
The interviewed organizations reported that Fundo Vale has helped foster strategic connections, bring complementary agendas closer together, encourage partnerships and increase the flow of knowledge among different stakeholders. At the same time, the study identifies opportunities to improve the ongoing coordination of these initiatives, strengthening collaboration and the potential for collective impact in the social and environmental impact ecosystem.
“By sharing these reflections, Fundo Vale reaffirms its commitment to impact generation and management, transparency and continuous learning. We hope the findings presented in this study will inspire other stakeholders to adopt more structural, collaborative and evidence-based approaches,” Vilhena says.
Five pathways to strengthen the social and environmental impact ecosystem
Based on data and insights from ecosystem enablers and specialists, the study identifies five pathways to strengthen the social and environmental impact ecosystem and expand its capacity to drive lasting change:
- Increase funding to strengthen organizations, allocating more resources to structures, teams, governance, monitoring and capacity development;
- Strengthen network coordination and orchestration, promoting greater integration among organizations, priorities and initiatives to maximize positive collective impact;
- Foster the development of a diversity agenda, expanding support for entrepreneurs and organizations led by historically underrepresented groups from the early stages;
- Turn data into strategic intelligence for the field, integrating evidence and lessons learned to guide decisions, investments and public policies;
- Deepen connections with communities, through listening, a stronger local presence, strengthened teams and the participation of local stakeholders in decision-making processes.
Download the study “Strengthening to Transform: ecosystem enablers in the impact ecosystem—an assessment of Fundo Vale’s contributions.”