In the first four editions of Impact Corner, we explored what impact is, how to make science more connected to society, what values underpin discussions of impact, and how to measure and learn from it. The next step is to examine how institutions themselves can foster an environment that supports and integrates impact—a culture where impact becomes a strategic, structural, and shared element rather than depending solely on individuals or projects.
A culture of impact goes beyond having dedicated project sections or organizing occasional events. It involves creating the space, strategy, and support necessary for impact to be both possible and habitual. In such an institution, responsibility for impact is embedded in its identity rather than delegated to specific individuals, making it an integral part of everyday practices.
To conclude this first season of Impact Corner, it is important to reflect on the practices and measures that promote a healthy approach to impact at the institutional level. This includes acknowledging common limitations and challenges while exploring opportunities, drawing on insights from international networks and experts in the field.
A culture of impact can be defined as the set of values, practices, and attitudes that make impact a central part of an institution’s mission and research activities. It goes beyond mere discussion, integrating impact into decision-making, recognition systems for academic and administrative staff, and relationships with society. A healthy impact culture provides the necessary strategy, resources, and support, ensuring clarity and shared understanding across the institution. It adapts, learns, and connects research to societal needs in a structural and transparent way, making impact an intrinsic part of institutional practice.
Institutions that embrace this approach prevent impact from relying solely on individual researchers or sporadic funding requirements, which can lead to unequal, fragile, and unsustainable efforts. By embedding impact in their structures and strategies, institutions create stability and continuity in their societal contributions. Tools such as the Institutional Healthcheck Workbook by Dr. Julie Bayley and Dr. David Phipps offer guidance on the practices and commitments that sustain a healthy impact culture.
The growing emphasis on institutional impact is supported by initiatives and networks, including EARMA’s Impact thematic group and the CERCA impact practice community, which provide resources and frameworks for fostering strategic impact. Reports such as COARA’s “Towards Transformation” advocate for integrating impact evaluation into research systems and policies, demonstrating the increasing recognition of this approach across institutions.
Despite the progress, challenges remain, including low awareness of impact, limited funding and staffing, insufficient systems for monitoring and evaluation, lack of training and leadership, and difficulties in some fields like basic research to engage fully in impact initiatives. At the same time, opportunities exist in the current context, as many institutions are advancing in co-creation with stakeholders, openly sharing resources, and leveraging tools such as artificial intelligence to support impact-related tasks while carefully considering ethical implications.
