Impact SW pioneers bold, interdisciplinary research to shape the future of economic regeneration and social transformation in a fast-changing, interconnected, and digitally driven world. Centred on the belief that economic progress must align with social justice, ecological stewardship, and inclusive innovation, the group’s vision is to generate knowledge that empowers communities, informs policy, and transforms practice—locally and globally.​ With a commitment to meaningful collaboration and to the co-production and evaluation of interventions, Impact SW positions itself as a leading hub for forward-thinking research that not only responds to global change, but helps drive it.  ​ 

Lead: Professor Sheela Agarwal

Driven by a purpose to create resilient, equitable and sustainable futures, the group’s research and expertise spans the following themes: 

International finance, trade and globalisation
Explores how cross-border financial interactions, global market dynamics, and trade flows shape economic performance and policy making, equipping organisations to navigate international economic challenges, manage international risks and seize opportunities in an interconnected global economy. Our research also investigates corporate financial systems to support corporate policy, along with ESG and Sustainability themes. 

Regional development and the blue and green economies
Examines causes and consequences of social and income inequalities and poor social mobility, and how regenerative business ecosystems, tourism and creative industries support economic renewal and stronger, inclusive communities. 

Sustainable enterprises, digital and social innovation and positive working lives
Investigates how digital technologies and social innovation and inclusive organisational practices can create human flourishing, drive sustainable change and improve quality of life by thoughtfully integrating new tools with human needs. 

Impact SW hosts academics with a range of expertise in community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, capacity building, appraisal and evaluation, including the Social Research Unit.  It works with public, private and third sector organisations, providing bespoke services tailored to clients’ needs.