Tool

IMPACT ACADEMY Project has the clear goal to create a Tool to assess how well an entrepreneurial idea meets the SDGs 2030.

The SDG Impact Assessment Tool will be a free, online resource for entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs, companies, entrepreneurs to self-assess the extent to which their project entrepreneurship idea creates a positive impact on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The tool will be open for anyone to use and can help entrepreneurs to identify relevant sustainability perspectives of their work in a simple and structured approach.

This tool assesses a project idea ’s impact on each of the 17 SDGs as either direct positive, indirect positive, no impact, indirect negative, direct negative, or more knowledge needed. The tool encourages reflection and collaborative learning of the SDGs and the links between them.

The SDG Impact Assessment Tool helps users to evaluate how the ideas, projects , activities, impacts onto the SDGs.

The objective of this WP is perfectly connected with the general and specific objective of the project since it is a practical instrument to promote the impact evaluation.

Guidelines

Download SDG Impact Assessment Tool Guideline

SDG Impact Assessment

General Business Impact

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SDG 1 - No Poverty

Question: Does your business contribute to reducing poverty in the communities where you operate?

Strong impact; business model integrates poverty reduction initiatives such as job creation, fair trade, and financial inclusion.

Active support through fair employment, community programs, and partnerships with organizations fighting poverty.

Neutral impact; explore strategies like fair wages, ethical supply chains, and financial literacy programs for employees.

Some engagement but limited impact; increase employment opportunities for low-income groups and provide microfinance support.

No direct contribution; consider community engagement initiatives such as hiring from marginalized communities and investing in social enterprises.

SDG 2 - Zero Hunger

Question: Does your idea support small-scale producers or suppliers?

Leading example in ethical sourcing and food security programs, ensuring long-term viability for small producers.

Supports small-scale suppliers with fair trade pricing, training programs, and partnerships.

Neutral impact; evaluate how purchasing and supply chain policies can promote food security and sustainability.

Some efforts but lacking strong partnerships; consider sourcing from local farmers and ensuring fair prices.

No engagement with small-scale producers; assess supply chains to integrate fair trade and ethical sourcing.

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Question: Does your business promote public health and well-being?

Leader in workplace safety, public health advocacy, and preventive healthcare initiatives for employees and communities.

Actively promotes public health through employee benefits, wellness programs, and partnerships with healthcare initiatives.

Neutral impact; assess ways to integrate workplace well-being policies and community health support.

Some initiatives exist but are inconsistent; consider employee wellness programs, health insurance, and mental health support.

No health policies; introduce workplace health and safety programs and community health initiatives.

SDG 4 - Quality Education

Question: Does your business provide training, education, or mentorship programs?

Actively partners with schools and universities, creating long-term education and workforce development programs.

Provides structured training, internships, and professional development opportunities for employees and youth.

Neutral impact; assess how training and skills development can enhance employee and community potential.

Some training but lacks formalized programs; establish mentorship initiatives and partnerships with educational institutions.

No involvement in education or training; explore employee development, upskilling, and knowledge-sharing programs.

SDG 5 - Gender Equality

Question: Does your business promote gender equality and diversity?

Leading advocate for gender equality, with inclusive hiring, mentorship programs, and advocacy for women's rights.

Strong gender inclusion policies, equal pay initiatives, and leadership programs for women.

Neutral impact; assess how company culture and policies support gender equity.

Some policies exist but lack enforcement; ensure transparent gender representation in leadership.

No gender policies; implement diversity hiring, equal pay policies, and anti-discrimination measures.

SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities

Question: Does your business ensure equal opportunities for all employees?

Leading example of workplace equality, with structured diversity policies, fair promotions, and social impact programs.

Promotes inclusive hiring, anti-discrimination policies, and supports equal opportunities for disadvantaged groups.

Neutral impact; evaluate how company culture supports social inclusion and equal pay.

Some diversity initiatives exist but need stronger enforcement; create clear pathways for marginalized employees.

Discriminatory hiring practices or workplace inequality; implement anti-discrimination policies and diversity training.

Environmental Impact

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SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation

Question: Does your business have a water conservation policy?

Industry leader in water sustainability, implementing rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and community water conservation projects.

Actively reduces water use with efficiency measures, water recycling, and responsible wastewater management.

Neutral impact; explore how your company can integrate water conservation strategies into its operations.

Some water-saving efforts exist but lack enforcement; consider installing water-efficient fixtures and conducting usage audits.

No water conservation policies; implement urgent measures like reducing water waste, recycling water, and monitoring consumption.

SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy

Question: Does your business use renewable energy?

Business is carbon-neutral and fully powered by renewable energy, with initiatives to promote clean energy adoption in the supply chain.

Actively investing in renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.

Neutral impact; explore how energy efficiency and renewable sources can be incorporated into operations.

Some energy-saving initiatives exist, but no clear renewable energy integration; set clear targets for renewable adoption.

Fully reliant on fossil fuels; transition to sustainable energy sources like solar, wind, or hydroelectric power.

SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Question: Does your business promote green technology or sustainable innovation?

Industry leader in eco-innovation, investing in smart technologies, green manufacturing, and sustainable product design.

Actively developing and implementing sustainable technologies and infrastructure improvements.

Neutral impact; assess how your business can integrate sustainable processes and eco-friendly innovations.

Some efforts exist but lack implementation; explore partnerships with tech firms specializing in sustainability.

No investment in sustainable innovation; introduce research and development for green technologies.

SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production

Question: Does your business minimize waste production?

Circular economy leader with zero-waste policies, closed-loop production systems, and innovative recycling strategies.

Actively minimizes waste through efficiency programs, composting, and sustainable supply chain practices.

Neutral impact; assess waste production and develop a waste management plan.

Some waste reduction policies in place but inconsistent; consider a circular economy model and sustainable packaging.

High waste generation; implement immediate strategies like reducing, reusing, and recycling materials.

SDG 13 - Climate Action

Question: Does your business take steps to reduce carbon emissions?

Leading example in climate action, with net-zero commitments, green investments, and emissions transparency.

Actively reduces carbon footprint through efficiency improvements, renewable energy use, and sustainable supply chain practices.

Neutral impact; explore sustainable transportation, energy-efficient operations, and carbon-neutral strategies.

Some measures exist but lack accountability; set clear emissions reduction targets and implement carbon offsets.

No action; introduce immediate carbon footprint assessments and reduction plans.

SDG 15 - Life on Land

Question: Does your business contribute to biodiversity protection?

Leader in biodiversity protection, promoting sustainable land management, wildlife conservation, and responsible sourcing.

Supports biodiversity conservation through sustainable sourcing, reforestation, and habitat protection initiatives.

Neutral impact; assess how business practices affect biodiversity and adjust accordingly.

Some sustainability efforts exist but lack impact; explore sustainable land use and conservation partnerships.

Business operations contribute to deforestation, habitat destruction, or pollution; implement immediate conservation strategies.

Social and Community Impact

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SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth

Question: Does your business provide fair wages and safe working conditions?

Industry leader in ethical employment, offering strong labor protections, employee benefits, and economic empowerment programs.

Actively promotes fair wages, worker safety, and professional development opportunities.

Neutral impact; assess working conditions and explore ways to enhance job security and employee rights.

Some policies exist but need improvement; introduce transparent wage policies and safety audits.

No fair wages or safety measures; establish compliance with labor laws, fair pay, and worker protections.

SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities

Question: Does your project support sustainable urban development or smart city solutions?

Leading supporter of sustainable cities, investing in eco-friendly infrastructure, smart technologies, and public space revitalization.

Actively implements sustainable infrastructure, low-carbon mobility, and community-based urban development programs.

Neutral impact; evaluate how the business can contribute to community resilience and urban sustainability.

Some efforts in urban sustainability exist but lack scale; consider partnerships to promote smart infrastructure.

No sustainability initiatives; introduce urban greening, energy-efficient buildings, and public transportation solutions.

SDG 16 - Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Question: Does your business prevent corruption and promote ethical leadership?

Industry leader in business ethics, advocating for fair regulations, responsible governance, and public-private integrity.

Actively promotes ethical leadership, anti-bribery policies, and corporate governance transparency.

Neutral impact; assess business governance and corporate responsibility strategies.

Some governance measures exist but lack enforcement; ensure internal audits and accountability mechanisms.

No transparency policies; implement strict anti-corruption guidelines and compliance frameworks.

SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Question: Does your business engage in sustainability partnerships?

Recognized leader in sustainability collaborations, forming global partnerships and cross-sector initiatives for maximum impact.

Actively engages in sustainability partnerships, knowledge-sharing platforms, and community engagement projects.

Neutral impact; assess opportunities for cross-sector collaborations in sustainable development.

Some sustainability partnerships exist but are informal; create structured agreements with stakeholders.

No collaboration with sustainability networks; seek out partnerships with NGOs, universities, or industry leaders.

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Question: Does your business offer mental health support and workplace wellness programs?

Business is a role model in employee wellness, offering holistic health programs, flexible work policies, and psychological safety measures.

Actively promotes well-being through health insurance, wellness programs, and mental health support services.

Neutral impact; assess how the workplace environment can enhance mental and physical health.

Some programs exist but lack accessibility; create mental health support structures and training sessions.

No workplace wellness or mental health initiatives; introduce employee well-being programs and stress management policies.

SDG 4 - Quality Education

Question: Does your business support scholarships, apprenticeships, or training for underprivileged groups?

Industry leader in education support, investing in scholarships, skills training, and life-long learning opportunities.

Provides training, apprenticeships, and financial aid for students or employees seeking education.

Neutral impact; assess ways to integrate educational support into the business strategy.

Some training programs exist but are not widely accessible; expand apprenticeship and mentorship opportunities.

No education or training programs; establish learning initiatives for employees and underserved communities.

Economic and Innovation Impact

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SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth

Question: Does your business support financial sustainability and long-term economic growth?

Industry leader in economic sustainability, with long-term investments, financial resilience, and job creation programs.

Business operates with financial sustainability, invests in workforce development, and ensures fair economic contributions.

Neutral impact; assess how business practices can contribute to stable economic growth.

Some financial sustainability efforts exist but lack strategic direction; conduct financial risk assessments and diversify revenue sources.

No long-term financial planning; implement sustainable business models and responsible financial management strategies.

SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Question: Does your business invest in sustainable infrastructure and responsible production?

Leader in sustainable industry practices, advancing smart infrastructure and green manufacturing.

Invests in sustainable infrastructure, responsible manufacturing, and energy-efficient technologies.

Neutral impact; assess business operations and explore sustainable innovations.

Some infrastructure improvements exist but lack full integration; set clear sustainability targets for production and supply chains.

No investment in sustainability; prioritize eco-friendly facilities, green manufacturing, and resource efficiency.

SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production

Question: Does your company adopt circular economy principles?

Circular economy leader, integrating sustainability at all levels of production and resource use.

Actively implements circular economy strategies, closed-loop production, and responsible waste management.

Neutral impact; assess opportunities to minimize waste and improve supply chain sustainability.

Some sustainability efforts exist but lack circular economy integration; explore product lifecycle assessments and resource efficiency.

No circular economy initiatives; transition towards sustainable sourcing, production, and waste reduction.

SDG 13 - Climate Action

Question: Does your business engage in carbon offset programs and emissions reduction?

Industry leader in carbon neutrality, investing in climate resilience, emissions transparency, and offsetting initiatives.

Business actively reduces carbon footprint through energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable supply chains.

Neutral impact; assess how carbon neutrality can be integrated into business operations.

Some efforts exist but lack accountability; measure carbon footprint and explore carbon offset programs.

No carbon reduction strategies; set science-based climate targets and transition to low-emission operations.

SDG 15 - Life on Land

Question: Does your company ensure ethical sourcing and sustainable land use?

Leader in biodiversity protection, promoting sustainable land management, habitat restoration, and conservation policies.

Supports sustainable land use, ethical supply chains, and reforestation projects.

Neutral impact; assess the business's role in responsible land stewardship.

Some environmental considerations exist but need stronger enforcement; improve supplier audits and sustainable land-use plans.

No sustainability measures in place; implement ethical sourcing policies, reforestation programs, and land conservation efforts.

SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Question: Does your business collaborate with research institutions for sustainability solutions?

Industry leader in sustainability-driven research, funding innovative projects, and co-developing solutions for global challenges.

Business actively partners with research organizations to drive sustainability and technological advancements.

Neutral impact; assess how research and innovation collaborations can improve sustainability impact.

Some research partnerships exist but are informal; formalize agreements and increase knowledge-sharing initiatives.

No engagement with research institutions; establish collaborations with universities, think tanks, or innovation hubs.

Governance and Ethical Considerations

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SDG 16 - Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Question: Does your business have clear anti-corruption policies and transparency mechanisms?

Industry leader in ethical governance, advocating for fair business practices, corporate integrity, and public accountability.

Actively promotes corporate governance, anti-corruption training, and transparency reporting.

Neutral impact; assess how business operations can enhance ethical decision-making and transparency.

Some transparency policies exist but lack enforcement; establish stronger compliance frameworks and governance reviews.

No anti-corruption policies exist; implement strict ethical guidelines, internal audits, and whistleblower protections.

SDG 5 - Gender Equality

Question: Does your company have policies to ensure equal pay for equal work?

Recognized as a gender-equal employer, advocating for workplace inclusivity and fair compensation models.

Ensures equal pay and offers leadership development programs for women and underrepresented groups.

Neutral impact; assess gender representation at all company levels and promote wage fairness.

Some efforts exist but lack transparency; create clear pay equity reports and diversity-focused hiring practices.

No equal pay policies exist; conduct a wage gap analysis and enforce fair compensation policies.

SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities

Question: Does your business take action to reduce social inequalities in your workforce?

Leading example in reducing workplace inequalities, supporting marginalized communities and fostering inclusive leadership.

Promotes workforce diversity, social mobility, and equal opportunity hiring practices.

Neutral impact; assess how policies can be improved to foster an inclusive workplace.

Some diversity initiatives exist but need stronger implementation; offer training on unconscious bias and equity.

No diversity and inclusion efforts; establish anti-discrimination policies and inclusive hiring practices.

SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation

Question: Does your company monitor and manage its wastewater impact?

Industry leader in responsible water use, investing in clean water access, conservation, and efficiency technologies.

Actively implements wastewater monitoring, water recycling programs, and sustainable water management.

Neutral impact; assess how water usage and discharge impact local communities and ecosystems.

Some water policies exist but lack enforcement; establish clear guidelines for wastewater reduction and reuse.

No wastewater management plan exists; implement sustainable water treatment and pollution control systems.

SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy

Question: Has your company set clear targets for energy efficiency improvements?

Leading example in energy sustainability, setting ambitious goals for net-zero operations and promoting energy-conscious business practices.

Actively improving energy efficiency through audits, renewable energy adoption, and carbon reduction strategies.

Neutral impact; assess how energy efficiency can be improved in daily operations.

Some energy efficiency measures exist but lack monitoring; adopt green building standards and smart energy technologies.

No energy efficiency targets exist; establish an energy reduction plan and set measurable goals.

SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth

Question: Does your company ensure ethical labor practices and worker rights in its supply chain?

Industry leader in fair trade and ethical labor practices, ensuring supply chain transparency and advocating for workers' rights.

Actively monitors ethical sourcing, supplier working conditions, and fair treatment of workers.

Neutral impact; assess supply chain labor conditions and ensure workers' rights are upheld.

Some labor policies exist but lack enforcement; conduct audits and ensure compliance with global labor standards.

No labor rights protections exist; establish strict ethical sourcing and fair labor agreements.