Abstract

This article suggests an innovative method for a performance indicator to assess social projects. We illustrate this methodology through an analysis of projects financed by the CARIPLO Foundation of Milan, concerning social cohesion and social innovation issues. We propose a qualitative-quantitative indicator that does not intend to verify causal relationships between the implementation of social projects and the effects they produce. More modestly, it aims at providing scholars of public policy and policy makers with an easily usable instrument to test the ability of social projects to achieve their goals.