Research Program

Overview

The Gerhart Center’s research program is a pioneering hub for evidence-based research and knowledge on Social Responsibility across the Arab world and Africa. With a commitment to
advancing the practice of social impact, the program provides a neutral platform that bridges the gap between academic research, practical implementation, and community engagement.

Through its comprehensive approach, the center serves as a key knowledge hub for academics, policymakers, practitioners, and social impact communities. By conducting rigorous, evidence-driven research, the center addresses critical knowledge gaps, informs policy and practice, and catalyzes positive change across the region. 

The program also works to amplify underrepresented voices and foster cross-sector collaboration through a range of convening activities, including conferences, workshops, and policy discussions. The research program’s work spans a variety of critical areas, including social entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, philanthropy, civic engagement, and sustainable development. By focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in the Arab world and Africa, the Gerhart Center is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of social responsibility practices in these regions.

Activities

• Conducting Original Mapping Studies and Surveys:
  The center undertakes comprehensive mapping studies and surveys to document innovations and interventions in the institutionalized social investment and giving sectors across the Arab world and Africa. These studies track trends, identify challenges, and highlight successful models of social responsibility. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of social impact and provides a foundation for future interventions in the field.
   
• Endorsing Policy Discussion Papers:
  The research program produces policy discussion papers that offer comparative analyses of social responsibility practices and policies. These papers address current and emerging policy challenges, drawing from global and regional examples to provide evidence-based recommendations. The papers aim to influence policymakers, institutions, and key stakeholders, ensuring that the policy debate is grounded in rigorous, data-driven insights. The center’s policy work seeks to create a more conducive environment for social responsibility initiatives and to support the development of sustainable and inclusive social impact strategies.
   
• Organizing Policy Roundtables, Workshops, and Conferences:
  The center plays an active role in fostering dialogue and knowledge-sharing through the organization of policy roundtables, workshops, and conferences. These events create opportunities for stakeholders from various sectors—including governments, NGOs, foundations, social enterprises, and academia—to engage in discussions about key issues related to social responsibility and impact. Through these platforms, the Gerhart Center stimulates policy debates, encourages cross-sector collaboration, and enhances the capacity of practitioners to drive social change. These convenings also serve as incubators for new ideas and initiatives, where emerging scholars, social entrepreneurs, and young researchers can share their work and build connections with experienced professionals in the field. watch here
   
• Building a Community of Practice:
  The Gerhart Center is committed to creating and nurturing a community of practice for professionals, scholars, and young researchers in the fields of social responsibility, philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. Through its various events and activities, the program provides a space for knowledge exchange, networking, and professional development. By fostering collaboration and peer learning, the center supports the growth of a vibrant ecosystem dedicated to addressing social challenges in the region. watch here
   
• Collaborating with Regional and International Partners:
  The research program also collaborates with a wide range of regional and international partners, including universities, research institutions, NGOs, government agencies, and private sector entities. These partnerships help to expand the program’s reach and impact, as well as to leverage diverse expertise and resources. By working together with these partners, the Gerhart Center ensures that its research is both globally relevant and regionally grounded.