As New Zealand expands its social investment approach, Social impact bonds (SIBs) are emerging as a promising tool for reform—one that could reshape how we support our most vulnerable while offering a new pathway for those who want to invest in real change. What are SIBs, why do they matter, and how can they move us from good intentions to measurable impact?  

Maxim Institute Executive Director Tim Wilson speaks with Researcher Thomas Scrimgeour about his new paper exploring the promise and pitfalls of this model. They discuss the success of the Genesis Youth Trust trial, which reduced reoffending by 30% and delivered an estimated $9 in social value for every $1 invested, the importance of risk and frontline innovation, and why democratic legitimacy—not technocratic shortcuts—must guide future policy decisions about social welfare provision.

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