Research summary: Measuring diversity, equity and inclusion

Title of the report: Investment Readiness Program (IRP) diversity, equity and inclusion measurement framework

Author of the report: Feminuity

Why this study

Social purpose organizations (SPOs) led by equity-deserving groups face systemic barriers to accessing social finance. Equity-deserving groups include (among others):

• Black Canadians and other racialized peoples
• Indigenous peoples
• members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities
• people with disabilities, and
• women

When the Investment Readiness Program (IRP) was renewed in 2021, we wanted to make sure that the program was breaking down these barriers. To do that, we needed a way to track the IRP's progress towards making change.

The goal of this research was to provide best practices that would help us develop a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) measurement framework for the IRP.

What we did

The study analysed existing research on measuring DEI. From that, the researchers developed a list of best practices for measuring DEI progress in a grant and contribution program like the IRP.

The report:

• defined key terms
• made recommendations on how DEI can be measured
• highlighted inclusive data collection practices, and
• provided resources for further learning

What we found

The study found that having a strong DEI measurement framework is necessary to:

• track impact over time
• promote accountability
• identify future needs, and
• address systemic barriers

The report outlined best practices to consider when developing a framework to measure the DEI impacts of a program. These best practices include:

• collecting demographic data on a broad range of identifiers, backgrounds and communities, not just race and gender
• disaggregating demographic data to analyse the outcomes of each equity-deserving group
• setting goals beyond representation that aim to foster fair and inclusive experiences
• implementing comprehensive DEI eligibility requirements for funding recipients
• engaging in robust and targeted outreach
• aiming to foster belonging and end inequity through a thoughtful use of language
• providing DEI training and education for team members, and
• making DEI education opportunities available to funding recipients

What it means

A main goal of the IRP is to break down barriers. It aims to ensure that SPOs led by equity-deserving groups have the resources to access social finance. This report highlights best practices that will help measure progress towards this goal. It can also help future programs develop meaningful DEI measurement frameworks.

Contact us

Income Security and Social Development, Social Innovation and Community Development Directorate, Policy Division

Email: esdc.nc.sspb.research-recherche.dgpss.cn.edsc@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca