What is the IRIS+ System?
The IRIS+ System, developed by the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), is a globally recognized framework that provides standardized metrics and tools for measuring, managing, and optimizing the social, environmental, and financial performance of impact investments.
It serves as a common language for investors, asset managers, enterprises, and other stakeholders to define, track, and compare impact outcomes across sectors, geographies, and investment strategies.
Key Features of the IRIS+ System
- Standardized Impact Metrics
- Provides globally accepted metrics based on best practices.
- Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Ensures consistency and comparability in impact measurement.
- Impact Theme Guidance
- Offers structured thematic pathways such as affordable housing, clean energy, and financial inclusion.
- Helps users select the most relevant metrics for their investment objectives.
- Evidence-Based Research
- Includes evidence maps that link activities to expected social and environmental outcomes.
- Supports data-driven decision-making and strategy design.
- Alignment with Global Standards
- Integrates with frameworks such as SDGs, IFC Operating Principles, GIIRS, and the IMP Five Dimensions of Impact.
- Simplifies multi-framework reporting and alignment.
- Data Aggregation & Benchmarking
- Enables aggregation of impact data across portfolios.
- Supports benchmarking and performance comparison.
- Enhances reporting quality and investor transparency.
Why IRIS+ Matters
IRIS+ strengthens transparency, accountability, and comparability across the impact investing ecosystem. By providing a shared measurement framework, it empowers investors to make informed decisions and channel capital toward investments that generate measurable, meaningful impact alongside financial returns.
