What We Do
The SFI Group has been working for over a decade to promote outcome-oriented thinking in social projects based on impact investment, social and economic measurements, data-driven management, and training programs.
Pay-for-Success Products
The pay-for-success funding model for social programs is one where payment is contingent on achieving pre-defined outcomes so as to create an incentive for achieving maximum results. We pioneered these models in Israel and over the years have successfully founded and guided dozens of initiatives. Even today, the SFI Group is still the entity in Israel most identified with pay-for-success models. We develop these models for a variety of fields, and they are used by government ministries, non-profit organizations, private investors, donors, and more. We begin by defining the social challenge we want to address and develop an innovative intervention program for it. In the next stage, measurable goals and milestones are set. For example, in the case of integrating underrepresented populations into the job market, a measurable outcome would be the placement rate for a specific population. Then, a leading, external organization is chosen to operate and facilitate the program. The facilitating organization is paid based on the program's success and once results are achieved.
Career Impact Bond
The SFI Group manages a variety of programs employing the Career Impact Bond model. These programs provide high-level professional training for underprivileged populations and placement in the hi-tech industry and other professions with high-earning potential. Participants who complete the programs and find work in high-paying jobs repay the cost of their training in installments. The companies that operate the program are paid based on the placement rates of graduates. Impact investors fund the training cost and receive a return on investment after the program's graduates are placed. This tool uses a strategic and smart blended-finance impact model to leverage governmental or philanthropic funds.
Outcomes Rate Card
The Outcome Rate Card is a measurement tool used by government ministries and public sector offices for social services procurement. Payment rates are predetermined according to operational and performance priorities with added financial incentives for optimal social outcomes. Once a social challenge is identified, a call for proposals is published and potential providers are invited to submit innovative intervention programs. The chosen providers will operate the program in a results-based model and will be paid based on the social outcomes achieved.
Social Impact Bond
Blended-Finance Model - PPP Private-Public Partnership
The SFI Group is the leading implementer of social impact bonds in Israel. These unique blended finance models combine fundings from the public sector and impact investors and/or philanthropists to address pressing social challenges. Impact investment funds interventions and innovative solutions that enable large-scale initiatives to address challenges. The return the investors later receive from the government (or any other sponsors) is determined by the project’s outcome and success.
Projects in Pay-for-Success Products
Measurement, Research, and Economic Modeling Services
We assist decision-makers who seek to use data and socio-economic models to address social challenges in Israel, particularly those relating to welfare, health, education, and employment, as well as in the realms of economic development. Our research and economic consulting team conducts research on public issues and policies in Israel for governments, philanthropists, and social or business entities, including examining alternatives, cost-benefit, and SROI (Social Return on Investment). The team also explores the financial ramifications of specific social challenges on different elements of the Israeli economy.
Measurement and Data Strategy
A program that helps organizations and programs build and implement data strategies. In the program, participants are instructed on how to best define outcomes for social processes, develop monitoring metrics, build data tools, and implement technological infrastructure. Additionally, the program helps organizations establish data-driven work routines and organizational cultures. We assess existing social programs to identify what works and what doesn't and conduct research and reviews of leading social practices (in Israel and globally) to determine which methods should be adopted.
Advisory and Research
We offer advisory and assessment services to estimate the socio-economic significance of social projects, public issues, and policy changes. Our team specializes in assessing the direct and indirect economic implications of social phenomena at the national level. We also examine the potential benefits and SROI (social return on investment) of investment alternatives, policies, and design bespoke solutions.
Quantitative Research
We create and analyze surveys and questionnaires and assist organizations in analyzing existing data and relevant administrative information they have accumulated in order to identify their target audience's needs, devise tailored interventions, and measure the success and impact of certain social programs. We specialize in extracting and connecting social and public data as well as using advanced statistical tools for prediction and forecasting, and examining the impact of various intervention practices.
Project in Measurement and research services
The STEM Project
Developing a unique index for evaluating and measuring STEM Programs in Israel
As part of a strategic project by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland aimed to promote STEM and 21st-century skills, a wide-ranging process of program measurement and evaluation began in 2019 in four municipalities representing disadvantaged groups, whose students' achievements lag behind those of the general population. The project was later expanded to additional municipalities. Scientific measurement and evaluation tools were developed, regular work processes were created, and work plans were embedded in routine practices. In addition, a national STEM index was developed for all local authorities in Israel to be updated annually, and a unique bank of about 140 measurement and evaluation tools was formulated and integrated in seven different municipalities where STEM programs are operated.
Municipalities
The STEM Project
Developing a unique index for evaluating and measuring STEM Programs in Israel
Data Solutions for the Social Sector
We develop tools that help public and civil society organizations turn data into a meaningful management tool. We develop systems and tools for data collection, as well as define and design dashboards and devices that make data accessible to decision-makers. In addition, we offer a variety of courses and training programs in these fields. We invite partners from all sectors to join the DatA.IL innovation community and be part of promoting cross-sectoral work to make public data accessible and usable, and to implement AI-based work.
Data Accessibility Tools - Dashboard Design and Development
Harnessing the power of data tools to upgrade and improve daily work routines for public and social sector entities including, local authorities, government ministries, public administration agencies, NGOs, and civil society organizations. We do this by defining and designing dashboards and data accessibility tools that help outline the organization's decision-making processes and are tailored to the needs of its employees and managers.
Designing and Developing Data Collection Tools
Creating surveys and questionnaires and helping organizations define needs based on internal metrics and data. Emphasis is placed on the added value that can be created from the organization’s own tools and systems for all parties involved - those in the field, middle management, and leadership - and on answering important managerial questions for the organization.
DatA.IL
DatA.IL is an innovation community harnessing data and AI for the public good. The community is a joint venture of the Nova Project from the SFI Group, the Ministry of Economy, the Israel National Digital Agency, and the Israel Innovation Authority, in partnership with the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of Science, and the Central Bureau of Statistics. The community's goal is to cultivate an ecosystem that uses data and AI to solve the challenges facing Israeli society. The community brings together government officials, localities and municipalities, government ministries, the business sector, nonprofits, investors, philanthropists, academic institutions, and the general public to create fertile ground for breakthrough collaborations and projects. Activities include virtual and physical meetings, work groups, and networking meetings.
Project in Data Solutions for Social Issues
Data Leadership Courses
Training "Change Agents" to Lead Data-Based Work Processes
Training "agents of change" in organizations and government agencies to inspire them to lead data-based work processes. The course includes practical tools for working with data within various roles in the organization and was developed based on a close familiarity with the difficulties faced in the public and social sectors. Alongside this flagship course, the SFI Group also offers a comprehensive array of in-depth training and introductory workshops on data-based management tools for individuals and teams.
Nonprofits and Authorities Have Undergone Training
Data Leadership Courses
Training "Change Agents" to Lead Data-Based Work Processes
Results-Driven Management
Using performance management tools to foster optimal results in project management. The SFI Group employs a data-driven approach in all our projects. We therefore define the most effective outcomes and how to measure them before launching new initiatives. We will recommend management methods and intervention paths based on the interim metrics set in advance.
Innovative Project Management
Our performance managers are responsible for managing partnerships and engaging stakeholders, identifying discrepancies between planning and execution, and adapting programs to changing realities. Specific assigned metrics lead to flexibility, innovation, and creativity, and thus to optimal, measurable social results and outcomes.
Ongoing Progress Measurement
Our founding principles for successful and healthy management include ongoing monitoring and measurement of progress and open communication around successes, challenges, and delays. Our team is experienced in designing work processes that enable constant tracking, as well as identifying crossroads in the process that allow for in-depth assessments of what works and what doesn't and applying the conclusions.
Technology Tools for Tracking and Improvement
We utilize technology and digital tools for ongoing tracking and measurement of social programs in real-time such as apps and data collection tools. These tools provide us with a better understanding of social contribution in real-time through data analysis and reporting methodology and enable us to quickly identify problems and gaps that require treatment.
Project in Managing for Effective Results
Social Procurement
Formulating and Implementing Results-Based Work in Collaboration with the Government
The SFI Group worked in collaboration with the Social Procurement team at the Prime Minister's Office, which is responsible for improving the quality and effectiveness of outsourced social services by focusing on results and measurement. The process includes writing policy recommendations and then guiding a range of governmental social services in designing and implementing measurement systems. This includes working with the professional team defining desired outcomes and success metrics, and based on this, planning and implementing data collection and analysis tools. The goal of the project is to provide effective and accurate services that meet beneficiaries' needs, implement mechanisms that monitor progress, manage data-based dialogue, and initiate change when needed have been put in place.
Social services have undergone the process
Social Procurement
Formulating and Implementing Results-Based Work in Collaboration with the Government
Impact Investment and Philanthropy Management
We offer a wide range of consulting, guidance, and investment assessment services to investors and/or philanthropists who want to create a positive and sustainable impact. Our services include developing impact strategies and innovative funding models, mapping investment areas and identifying suitable opportunities, guiding decision-making processes, methods for measuring effectiveness, impact, and investment return according to global metrics, and even assistance in establishing and managing an impact fund. Our tools are flexible and personalized to ensure an efficient process and significant impact aligned with personal values.
Investment Strategies
We work with private and institutional investors, funds, and family offices to guide the entire investment process according to the investor's needs. We help build strategies and define areas for activity in the initial stage, followed by identifying suitable projects and opportunities. We also advise on due diligence, guide investing partners and assist in defining metrics and measurement processes for the chosen strategy.
Philanthropic Strategies
We work with foundations and donors to design data-driven strategies that will allow them to measure the impact and effectiveness of the organizations they support. Among other things, we offer diagnostic metrics for collected data; help build data strategies and roadmaps for implementation; guide the foundation/organization during the implementation process, and build mechanisms and tools for evaluation and measurement-based work.
Impact Strategies
We work with leading funds and bodies on outlining and devising measurable impact strategies. The SFI Group team works with each entity to define areas of impact and social domains and develop clear and measurable goals. The work includes defining impact and effectiveness measurement processes and practical recommendations for adjusting the fund's work to meet the goals.
Project in Investment Guidance and Impact Philanthropy
Establishing a Social Impact Fund
Identifying and Investing in Income-Generating Social Ventures
The SFI Group was a partner in establishing and operating an impact fund for Keren Hayesod. The fund’s goal is to create impact investment opportunities and promote a sustainable financial model. Our team surveyed the local ecosystem and identified investment opportunities in income-generating social ventures in need of funding.
Invested in social ventures
Establishing a Social Impact Fund
Identifying and Investing in Income-Generating Social Ventures
Training, Courses,
and Ecosystem Building
We offer civil society organizations, local authorities, government agencies, and philanthropists a variety of workshops, training, and courses that focus on data-driven and results-oriented work in the field of social impact and impact investments. We invite partners from all sectors to join the DatA.IL innovation community and be part of promoting cross-sectoral work to make public data accessible and usable, and to implement AI-based work.
Courses
We offer courses for civil society organizations, local authorities, government, and philanthropic bodies in the field of data-driven and results-oriented social change work. Course participants receive practical tools for leading change in their organization and learn how to manage activity based on data: how to collect, analyze and get the most out of it. Our most renowned course is the Data Leaders Training course for employees in nonprofits/local authorities (for more details and a glimpse of the last cycle, click here). The course includes 7-10 meetings in which participants acquire tools for structuring organizational data processes and gain exposure to technological solutions. All of the SFI Groups’ trainings can be tailored to each organization’s specific needs.
Workshops
We conduct two types of workshops for organizations, government agencies, and local authorities - introductory and training. Our workshops are offered in conference or event formats and they are based on an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by managers leading data-driven change processes and results-oriented social impact work. Our introductory workshops are introductory workshops that give an introduction to data-driven management, results-oriented work, and social impact and investments while also providing inspiration and a review of professional tools and practices. The training we provide is focused on developing capabilities within the organization and on collecting, analyzing and making decisions based on a shared data-based language, for example: mapping challenges and investigating issues, outcome oriented methodology and theories on social change,as well as practical guidance on how to design dashboards and more.
Training
A variety of workshops and training courses for civil society organizations, local authorities, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations focusing on data-driven and outcome-based work. Participants receive practical tools to lead change in their organization and learn to manage its activities based on data. They learn how to collect, analyze, make decisions, effect change, and even profit from data they already have. We invite partners from all sectors to join the DatA.IL innovation community and be part of promoting cross-sectoral work to make public data accessible and usable, and to implement AI-based work for solving public problems.
Projects in Training, Guidance, and Building an Ecosystem
Building an Organizational Index
Evaluating the Impact of Edmond de Rothschild Partnerships’ Leadership Development Program
Non-profits with a valid seal
Midot Seal for Effectiveness
A National Seal that Assures the Effectiveness of Nonprofits
Swords of Iron War
Mobilizing for the Rehabilitation of Israeli Society
Current events compel us to find immediate solutions to new challenges. Our main goal is to leverage government budgets by raising matching and blended funding that will be allocated to rehabilitating the victims of the Oct. 7th attacks, the resulting Swords of Iron War, and residents of the Gaza Envelope and Northern regions most directly affected by the war. Additionally, we give special focus to ongoing social activity that was damaged as a result of the war. Our team focuses on assisting local authorities and organizations by collecting, managing, and analyzing data, and by mapping emerging needs and challenges and tailoring suitable responses. Our emphasis is on populations directly affected by the war and underserved populations.
Society and Mental Health
A project for identifying and maintaining a continuum of care for children in complex emotional situations. Our activities include assistance in defining outcome metrics for rehabilitation and resilience programs, constructing evaluation and measurement systems for ongoing programs to maximize impact potential, and utilizing the IPS approach as part of the rehabilitation plans for young people and individuals suffering from PTSD in an effort to ease their reintegration into society.
Economic Resilience
Establishing a fund to promote diverse employment in a Career Impact Bond model for quality employment solutions that will ensure Israel's economic resilience. The fund will leverage government budgets in combination with funding from businesses, philanthropists, and investors. The goal is to finance professional training in various industries and occupations, to provide employment training, and to provide placements in high-quality positions for individuals directly affected by the war and other underserved populations. The fund will follow an outcome-based model and provide solutions to employers’ challenges and employment integration issues.
Local Authorities
Our team is consulting and assisting municipalities, localities, and civic organizations by providing them with a flexible toolbox to help them address changing needs on the ground. This is done in collaboration with philanthropic entities, the Israel National Digital Agency, the Israel Innovation Authority, and various government ministries. We offer assistance in creating databases that monitor sensitive populations and help to connect to national initiatives. In addition, we assist in developing data infrastructures to deal with rehabilitation and "the day after the war" issues based on tried and tested know-how and models we have developed for small businesses and employment.
