Responsible finance provider Social Investment Scotland (SIS) has appointed impact investing pioneer Amir Rizwan (pictured above) to its board, as it steps up efforts to build an impact economy.

Amir is a prominent leader within the UK’s social investment and impact landscape, bringing over a decade’s worth of experience supporting mission-driven organisations to secure funding, grow sustainable ventures, and drive systemic change. 

He currently serves as director of London Social Ventures, a Research England-backed initiative that fosters the development of enterprises emerging from London’s universities and research institutions. In this role, Amir bridges academic innovation, public sector partnerships, and community-led approaches to address urgent social and environmental issues.

Throughout his career, Amir has held senior positions at Better Society Capital, Comic Relief, and the Charities Aid Foundation, where he played a key role in shaping national funding strategies and investment programmes designed to strengthen the capacity and reach of social enterprises and community organisations. 

He also previously chaired the Investment Committee at SIS Ventures, supporting early-stage ventures that combine social purpose with commercial potential. His work spans diverse sectors from health equity to economic inclusion, guiding organisations through the challenges of scaling impact and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Amir is also a trustee of the Clothworkers’ Foundation, one of the UK’s major grant-makers, which provides long-term funding to organisations working with marginalised communities to deliver lasting social change.

Commenting on his new role, Amir said: “Finance is a powerful tool for social change. I’ve seen its impact first-hand through the many ventures I’ve supported over the years, as well as in my personal life.

I’ve long admired SIS for its groundbreaking work as Scotland’s first impact investor and its continued commitment to using capital in service of people and place, demonstrating how investment aligned with values can help build a fairer, more inclusive economy. I’m excited to support that vision as part of the board and help SIS deliver the next phase of its ambitious strategy.”

Commenting on Amir’s appointment, Alastair Davis, CEO of Social Investment Scotland, added: “Amir brings a rare combination of strategic insight and hands-on experience across the social investment ecosystem. 

His deep understanding of both the barriers and the potential within the impact economy will be a real asset to the board, especially as SIS continues to adapt and innovate in response to the evolving needs of the communities we serve.”

Social Investment Scotland was established in 2001 to provide a new finance model for Scotland’s charities and social enterprises. Since then, it has invested over £150 million.

Loan finance via Social Investment Scotland is available from £25k to £875k, with the flexibility to consider smaller amounts based on specific requirements, and is aimed at community enterprises and social businesses that might find access to finance from mainstream providers difficult. 

Social Investment Scotland also helps to manage funds on behalf of third parties, with any profits being re-invested into social business development in Scotland.