What are social impact investments and how do they function?

Social impact investments are financial partnerships that involve a problem owner, typically from the public sector, a private or public investor, and a service provider. The investor finances an intervention aimed at addressing social issues, and when successful outcomes are achieved, the savings generated in the public sector are used to repay the investment.

Why is Denmark considered a leader in social impact investments?

Denmark has a well-structured public sector that allows for effective collaboration between various entities, such as municipalities and regions. This structure creates opportunities for social impact investments, particularly in the employment sector, where traditional incentives may not align, making it challenging for the public sector to address the needs of vulnerable citizens.

How does Carelink ensure that its interventions are tailored to individual needs?

Carelink emphasizes flexibility in its interventions, allowing for personalized support based on the unique requirements of each citizen. By measuring outcomes rather than adhering to a strict plan, Carelink can adapt its services to provide exactly what individuals need at the right time.

What types of metrics does Carelink use to evaluate the success of its social impact investments?

Carelink uses both qualitative and quantitative metrics to assess the well-being of participants in its programs. This includes subjective measures of well-being, such as surveys, as well as quantitative data from databases like DREAM, which tracks employment outcomes and public finance impacts.

Who are some of the social impact investors involved with Carelink?

Carelink collaborates with various social impact investors, including French firms like Impact Partners and Ouray Capital, as well as local investors such as the Den Chouchelle Capital Fund, which was founded by David Dietz himself.

Why invest time and money in Danish welfare?

Finance

David Dietz

Director of Strategy & Business Development — Carelink Group

Why invest time and money in Danish welfare?

10:53·28 March 2026

When there is a quantitative economist as Head of Strategy in any company, it’s arguably a good sign for investors; when that company deals directly in social impact, they can be sure that not only is their money in safe hands, it’s also doing good.

David Dietz was looking for a way to reconcile head and heart; to exercise his financial and economic expertise while making a real difference to the lives of real people, the vulnerable, the sick, the unemployed. After years in management and finance, he found a way: by joining the ranks of one of his clients at the time, vast Danish welfare group Carelink. Listen to David explain some of the intricacies of social investments and share his joy in his job.

Frequently asked questions

Social impact investments are financial partnerships that involve a problem owner, typically from the public sector, a private or public investor, and a service provider. The investor finances an intervention aimed at addressing social issues, and when successful outcomes are achieved, the savings generated in the public sector are used to repay the investment.