In the early years, the Chair developed a set of important international partnerships (European Investment Bank and European Venture Philanthropy Association), which led to the development of advanced training programs that were pioneers worldwide in Scaling Impact. The chair also deepened the training of CATÓLICA-LISBON students through the creation of innovative courses in social entrepreneurship and impact investing for undergraduate and masters programs, also contributing to the national ecosystem of social innovation and to the development of Girl Move Academy. More recently, the Chair holder contributed to the development at CATÓLICA-LISBON of the Centre for Responsible Business & Leadership.

Research within the Chair focuses on the challenges of scaling impact ventures and innovation in financing models, creating the scientific and practice basis for a model of capitalism that promotes social impact and inclusion. The theme of cross-sector partnerships is also explored, as well as a focus on how companies can deepen social innovation and how Foundations can develop social investment and philanthropic impact activities. The Chair in Social Innovation supports initiatives driven by societal concerns and the creation of positive social impact.