Ithaca Impact

Great work being done by UNDP in building and growing the Community of Practice on Business and Conflict. By shining a light on the crucial role of responsible business in conflict zones, this initiative underscores how businesses can either ease tensions or, inadvertently, contribute to the escalation of conflict during times of crisis. This is an essential step forward in helping companies recognize the importance of heightened human rights due diligence, conflict sensitivity, and responsible decision-making-principles, something we are actively and practically engaged with at Ithaca Impact. We understand the complexities businesses face in fragile and high-risk environments and the tough choices they must navigate. That’s why we work alongside companies to ensure they are equipped with the tools and frameworks to make responsible decisions that support long-term stability. We’ve also had the privilege of collaborating with the International Chamber of Commerce to co-develop the ICC Guidance on Responsible Business in Challenging Contexts, which provides practical guidance for businesses in these environments. You can read more on this guide here: https://lnkd.in/gv4iw4zm Is your business in need of practical guidance on operating responsibly in conflict-affected or high-risk areas? Let's connect and explore how we can help. ?? ?? Read more about the UNDP initiative in their blog here: https://lnkd.in/gSFUSZKD Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Baptiste Millet #HumanRightsDueDiligence #HHRDD #ResponsibleBusiness #ConflictSenstivity #RiskManagement #ConflictRisk

Coherence and consistency is an important objective of regulation whether local or transnational. When achieved, it can deliver efficiency, fairness, productivity gains and reduced compliance costs for businesses. Then why are researchers, prominent firms, and civil society organizations sounding the alarm on the EU's new #Omnibus proposal? Many fear it could weaken recently agreed and hard-won advances in key sustainability and responsible business regulations. An omnibus process that is fast and exclusive could undermine the potential of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (#CSRD), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (#CSDDD), and the green taxonomy regulation to deliver urgent improvements in #humanrights and environmental outcomes. What’s at stake?? The Omnibus proposal has drawn strong opposition from several quarters. So, what are their concerns? ?? Academia & Researchers? ?? Economists warn that the proposal could lower the ambition of sustainability legislation, including the CSRD and the CSDDD.? ?? Stability in human rights and environmental regulation is critical for strategic autonomy and long-term economic strength.? ?? Regulatory uncertainty discourages investment and hinders sustainable business practices. ?? Civil Society? ?? NGOs and advocacy groups argue that reopening agreed-upon legislation creates legal instability and could roll back progress on corporate accountability.? ?? There is concern over a lack of transparency in the consultation process, with major business interests playing a dominant role.? ?? Weakening sustainability laws would harm human rights protections and reduce the EU’s ability to influence global standards. ?? Business Community? ?? Many businesses have invested in complying with existing regulations and fear that sudden changes will create additional costs and operational disruptions.? ?? Companies value regulatory certainty, constantly shifting rules make long-term investment planning difficult.? ?? Some businesses see #sustainability as a competitive advantage and worry that weaker regulations will undermine progress. ? Why this matters?? For companies, this debate underscores the importance of maintaining high sustainability standards. Beyond compliance, strong sustainability regulations drive resilience, innovation, and long-term success. Deregulation might ease short-term burdens, but it could also lead to instability, shifting policy landscapes, and increased risks for companies operating in global markets.? ? At Ithaca Impact, we see sustainability regulation as an opportunity. These regulations and frameworks foster innovation, support business stability and build trust with stakeholders. Now is the time for businesses to engage, advocate, and shape policies that foster a sustainable and responsible future. Need to know how? Contact us now. Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Hans Hagemann Llanos Nina Hitchins Baptiste Millet

Just launched:?Updated UNEP FI Human Rights Toolkit??? In today's rapidly evolving market landscape, financial institutions are at the forefront of setting expectations for responsible and ethical business practices. Contributing to a sustainable and ethical global economy that protects and respects #humanrights is no longer optional, it’s an increasingly clear strategic imperative. ? The newly updated UNEP FI Human Rights Toolkit is a useful tool designed to help institutions align with international human rights standards and play a key role in fostering a responsible financial system. Prioritizing human rights is essential for #risk mitigation, creating stable regulatory environments, supporting investor and business confidence, and promoting responsible conduct including in conflict and high-risk areas.? ? ?? What’s new in the Toolkit?? ?? Sector-specific guidance: The toolkit provides tailored advice and practical resources to help institutions address the unique human rights challenges they grapple with. ?? Simplified Frameworks: The toolkit makes human rights frameworks more accessible?for financial institutions. ?? Continuous Monitoring: The toolkit?promotes ongoing monitoring to ensure human rights are considered at every stage of financial projects. ?? Educational Resources: New to human rights principles? The toolkit offers easy-to-understand explanations of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (#UNGPs). ?? What does this mean for financial institutions?? Financial Institutions can be a last line of defense for human rights, their standards often prevail where others are voluntary. The updated toolkit is part of a broader set of tools released over the last two years that support alignment with the UNGPs. These efforts send a clear message to financial institutions - and those who borrow from them - that accountability, transparency, and responsibility is an expectation. By prioritizing human rights, financial institutions can build trust with investors, regulators, and consumers, positioning themselves as leaders in a market where ethical behavior is increasingly valued. At Ithaca Impact, we specialize in helping institutions and companies navigate the complexities of Heightened Human Rights Due Diligence (#HRDD). We provide strategic guidance and training on integrating human rights into corporate governance and investment strategies. ? Need help implementing responsible business practices??Contact us ?? https://lnkd.in/g3DRrhSb. ? Watch launch UNEP FI Human Rights Toolkit ?? https://lnkd.in/g6vpyBzZ United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) Hans Hagemann Llanos Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Baptiste Millet Chandran Vigneswaran

What a fantastic start to?Cohort 2 of the 'Get Set for Impact' program!??? We loved kicking things off with this incredible group of exceptional women?and looking forward to working?alongside you over the coming weeks -?mapping your?Theory of Change, capturing real-world data, and bringing your impact to life. Excited for the journey ahead with Prue Bauer from Airgarden, Susan Toft from The Laundry Lady & Eleesa Johnstone from TRACTION For Young People -?watch this space! ??? #AdvanceQueensland?#ImpactMeasurement?#GetSetForImpact #ImpactInvestment #ForPurposeBusiness #FemaleFounders Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Wiktoria Babuszewska Celesta den Houdijker

?? Lucky last? ?? One more seat available on our Get Set for Impact program, kicking-off 4 Feb! ? Join an inspiring cohort of female founders who are ready to measure, showcase, and?visualize their impact! This is your chance to secure the final seat in?Cohort 2?and gain the tools you need to demonstrate your business’s social and environmental impact value. If you're a female purpose-driven entrepreneur based in Queensland and seeking investment or need to demonstrate your impact to stakeholders, this program is designed for you. ?? Together, we'll: ?? Articulate your Theory of Change ?? Develop your impact measurement framework and collect evidence ?? Build and implement your custom impact dashboard ???What our Cohort 1 Alumni had to say: “The dashboard is a fantastic resource that will have a long-term impact on the organisations communication. It will help us capture and track impact for years to come.” Take the next step in your impact journey ?? —apply for Cohort 2 today! ?? https://lnkd.in/gP8grsY3 Advance Queensland Jayne Shallcross Elana Morrow Jess Combe Julie Hogarth-Williams Michelle Hill, PhD Rachel Condos-Fields Sonya Beyers Karina Hogan Wayne Gerard Onimpact Kerry Series Piers Grove Louise Broekman Jan Easton FABC Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Wiktoria Babuszewska Nikki Accornero Dr Christina Turner, GAICD, FGIA Kyl Murphy Business Coalition for Gender Equality (BCGE) Chris Boyle Sandy Mott James Lane Gavin K. Trenna Probert Clint O'Brien Ross Buchanan Linda Ginger Sandra McCullagh Celesta den Houdijker The Precinct #impactmeasurement #impactinvestment #advancequeensland #femalefounders

Conflict risk is rising, with state-based armed conflict now ranking as the third highest global risk for 2025 in the World Economic Forum 's 2025 Global Risk report. The implication for businesses and investors is very clear - conflict risk must be managed, and managed in the direction of long term de-escalation and stability. This doesn't mean dis-engagement. It means understanding conflict contexts, smart engagement and aligning capital with long term peace efforts. At Ithaca Impact we specialise in responsible business and investment in fragile and conflict affected contexts. Go to: https://lnkd.in/g3DRrhSb #hhrdd #PeaceFinance #ConflictRisk #SustainableInvesting Conflict Smart

New Year, new opportunities to let your impact shine! ? You know the difference you're making.?Now, let your data tell the world with the?Get Set for Impact Program. This program is designed to empower purpose-driven female entrepreneurs and leaders, like you, to showcase and validate your social and environmental impact with real-world data. Whether you're seeking investment or want to better communicate your impact to stakeholders, we are providing you with the tools, skills, and support to make it happen. Program Highlights: ???Customized Impact Tools: Gain access to resources and expert guidance to measure, manage, and report your impact effectively. ???Personalized 1-1 Support: Work in small cohorts to develop your Theory of Change, implement evidence collection strategies, and build your personalized impact dashboard. ???Showcase Event: End the program with a high-profile event featuring Queensland’s top impact investors, offering you valuable exposure. If you’re ready to let your data tell your story, join us! Limited spots are available. Next Cohort kicks-off on February 4th! ?? Apply here:?https://lnkd.in/gP8grsY3 Let’s amplify your impact and secure the investment you need to grow Advance Queensland Jayne Shallcross Rachel Condos-Fields Sonya Beyers Karina Hogan Wayne Gerard Onimpact Kerry Series Piers Grove Louise Broekman Jan Easton FABC Stuart Allinson Chandran Vigneswaran Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Wiktoria Babuszewska Nikki Accornero Dr Christina Turner, GAICD, FGIA Kyl Murphy Business Coalition for Gender Equality (BCGE) Chris Boyle Sandy Mott James Lane Gavin K. Trenna Probert Clint O'Brien Ross Buchanan Linda Ginger Sandra McCullagh Celesta den Houdijker SCTechIA - Sunshine Coast Tech Industry Alliance Social Impact Hub #impact #impactmeasurement #advancequeensland #femalefounders #impactinvestment #socialimpact

? Wrapping Up 2024! ? As the year winds down, we’re reflecting on the range of? issues we've helped our clients take steps forward on this year.? We’ve guided and accompanied clients through advancements in: ?? managing impacts of critical minerals projects; ?? ensuring conflict sensitivity in conflict affected contexts, building responsible supply chains; ?? improving human rights due diligence and heightened human rights due diligence; ?? alignment with the EU CSDDD and other responsible business and sustainability standards; ?? training on and raising capacity in human rights and security; ?? advancing?gender equality; ?? tackling gender-based violence; ?? localizing development assistance; and ?? monitoring real impact on people and planet.? Thank you to our clients, partners, and network of specialists for being part of this journey—it wouldn’t be possible without you, and your willingness to always go a little farther. As the world continues to be challenged by conflict, climate change and inequality, taking meaningful steps in the direction of positive impact is needed more than ever.?This is no time for retreat.? Our team will be recharging from 20 December to 6 January to return in the new year with energy and new initiatives!? Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful holiday season. See you in the new year! ?? Sonya Byers OBE Clint O'Brien Ryan Bourke Marie-Alice Small Annie Major Timothy Fort Kristen Petillon Greg Denton Zaeen Khan Bronwyn Bidstrup Dr Christina Turner, GAICD, FGIA David Nash Chris Boyle Sandra Gamble Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Scott Carnie Baptiste Millet Wiktoria Babuszewska Celesta den Houdijker Thurayne Lwin, PMP Chandran Vigneswaran Karina Hogan Advance Queensland Ashleigh Mansbridge

?? We're Hiring! Join Our Team as a Sustainability Consulting Manager! ??? ? Are you a whizz at?social impact research, data collection and analysis? Are you serious about driving meaningful change? ?? Do you thrive managing a diverse project portfolio?? We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Sustainability Consulting Manager to lead consulting projects that deliver real, on-the-ground impact.? ? At Ithaca Impact, we’re on a mission to help organizations navigate their responsible business journey and create genuine social and environmental impact. As part of our team, you’ll work with clients to develop data-driven strategies, optimize sustainability performance, and solve complex challenges in a rapidly changing world.? ? This role is perfect for someone with:? ? 8+ years of consulting experience (economic, management, or impact measurement) ? ? A post-graduate qualification in economics, business or equivalent? ? A knack for qualitative and quantitative data collection and interpretation, decision making and creating impactful strategies ? ? Leadership skills to inspire and mentor a growing team An exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference while collaborating with forward-thinking clients and a dynamic team of experts. Are you ready to shape the future of responsible business? Let’s talk.? ? ?? Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/ghxps7v9? Scott Carnie Baptiste Millet Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Sandy Mott Sonya Beyers Chris Tanti Bronwyn Grieve Sarah Zeljko Sandra Gamble Annie Major Fauve Kurnadi #Sustainability #Consulting #Impact #ESG #Leadership #Hiring #SustainabilityCareers #CareerOpportunity #SustainabilityJobs #WorkWithPurpose #Hiring?

?? Applications for Cohort 2 are now open ??? ? Are you creating real social and environmental impact but struggling to find the right data to tell your impact story???? Join our Get Set for Impact program, designed for purpose-driven businesses seeking investment or needing to demonstrate impact to stakeholders. Together, we’ll: ?? Articulate your Theory of Change? ?? Develop your impact measurement framework and collect evidence? ?? Build and implement your impact dashboard Be part of an inspiring cohort of female founders who are ready to measure, showcase, and visualize their impact. ?? ??? What our Cohort 1 Alumni had to say:? ? “The dashboard is a fantastic resource that will have a long-term impact on the organisations communication. It will help us capture and track impact for years to come.”? ? Take the next step in your impact journey—apply today!? ??? https://lnkd.in/gP8grsY3 Applications close on January 10! ? Advance Queensland Jayne Shallcross Rachel Condos-Fields Sonya Beyers Karina Hogan Wayne Gerard Onimpact Kerry Series Piers Grove Louise Broekman Jan Easton FABC Stuart Allinson Chandran Vigneswaran Dr Elizabeth Armstrong Nina Hitchins Wiktoria Babuszewska Nikki Accornero Dr Christina Turner, GAICD, FGIA Kyl Murphy Business Coalition for Gender Equality (BCGE) Chris Boyle Sandy Mott James Lane Gavin K. Trenna Probert Clint O'Brien Ross Buchanan Linda Ginger Sandra McCullagh Celesta den Houdijker SCTechIA - Sunshine Coast Tech Industry Alliance #impact #impactmeasurement #advancequeensland #femalefounders #impactinvestment #socialimpact?