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Research that benefits society
The Social Impact Community at the University of Iowa is a community of researchers working together with organizations to develop evidence-based solutions to the most pressing issues in our society.
The Initiative is a hub for scholars across disciplines who are passionate about helping organizations and individuals build a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient society—from environmental sustainability to health and well-being, social justice, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Interdisciplinary, evidence-based, and actionable
Complex societal issues require complex solutions. We tap into the collective expertise of researchers from the social sciences, business, data science, engineering, and public health. We conduct and support cutting edge research, and are razor focused on translating the results into useful and actionable plans for organizations.
Businesses & Organizations
Design CSR programs with real impact
Most business believe they can have a positive effect on both society and the bottom line. But despite their best intentions, they struggle to translate this sentiment into real-world impact. Our researchers collaborate with businesses to design corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and figure out how to effectively communicate their impact. Want to learn more?
Researchers
Collaborate to make change
If you want an opportunity to do research with societal impact, join our growing community. We support research through pilot grants, interdisciplinary research connections, and events. We develop competitive proposals for grant funding and sponsored research projects. Reach out to the contacts below to get started.
Contacts

Amy Colbert
Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship
Leonard A. Hadley Chair in Leadership
amy-colbert@uiowa.edu