Return to courses

Introduction to Social Investment

Build an understanding of the key concepts of social investment and what this means for the advice you provide to senior decision makers. In partnership with FrankCapability.

RegisterPrint course info
21 Apr 2026
19 Aug 2026
Next date
Location
Wellington
Duration
1 Day
CPD/PLD Hours
7.5

Course overview

This course provides a brief history of social investment and key concepts. It then introduces case studies and critiques, and suggests concrete next steps for Ministers, agencies and advisors.

This course is for advisors who want to take a social investment approach to providing advice. It is best suited to those who have a working understanding of government decision-making processes.

Facilitated by

Joanne Dow

FACILITATOR

What you'll learn

On completing this course, participants will learn:

  • what social investment is
  • what components of social investment currently exist
  • how to apply a social investment approach to your advice.

Course modules

Module 1: Understanding Social Investment Fundamentals

Explain what social investment is: its history, key concepts, and the consequences of the status quo.

  • The history of social investment
  • Key concepts:
    • The great paradox
    • Need is nuanced (the Mason Curve)
    • Government focuses on services (not people)
    • Learning to do better.
  • The consequences of the status quo

Module 2: Mapping Current Social Investment Practice

Identify the components of social investment that currently exist

  • Case studies.
    • Social welfare
    • Education
    • Health
  • Key critiques.

Module 3: Applying Social Investment to your work

Apply a social investment approach to policy advice

  • What is needed – tools, technologies and behaviours.
  • Next steps for Ministers, agencies and advisors.

Further Information

This practical and engaging facilitator-led, live learning session is delivered either in-person in one day or online in three two-hour sessions. Learners can ask questions, share experiences and work through real challenges together. We provide all the supporting resources needed.

Upcoming Courses & Delivery Options

21 Apr 2026 | Wellington

Duration: 1 Day

$NZD 950

excl. GST

19 Aug 2026 | Wellington

Duration: 1 Day

$NZD 950

excl. GST

Book your 2026 professional development, save 15%

Use code BOOKFOR2026 at checkout.

T&Cs apply