Brandon Dulisse, Chivon H. Fitch, Nathan T. Connealy
This study explores two community–university collaborations at the University of Tampa—the Industry Advisory Board (IAB, est. 2021) and the Criminology Institute for Research and Training (CIRT, est. 2023). Grounded in translational criminology, these initiatives bridge researcher–practitioner divides through collaborative, evidence-based policy and practice. The IAB, with 25+ agencies, enhances curriculum, research, and student preparedness, while CIRT disseminates evidence-based practices via trainings, symposia, and grant-funded studies on issues like cryptocurrency fraud. Findings reveal that translational criminology thrives—defined as growth to 25+ agency partners, 20+ annual student internships/jobs, annual training and certification events, and four publications—through inclusive stakeholder engagement, clear agenda-setting, and continuous evaluation. These partnerships evolve despite challenges like agency turnover, offering a replicable model for sustainable academic–practitioner–student collaborations. Future directions include expanding to 50+ agencies and aligning curricula with practitioner needs to drive impactful reform.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of financial technology (FinTech), the intersection of digital innovation capabilities (DICs) and Islamic social finance presents a fertile ground for enhancing sustainability in financial practices. This study employs a qualitative approach, specifically content analysis of existing literature sourced from journal databases. This theoretical review explores how DICs encompassing digitalization and digital transformation can influence the sustainability of Islamic social finance initiatives. Islamic social finance, rooted in principles of social justice and equitable distribution, aims to address socio-economic challenges while adhering to Shariah compliance. By synthesizing current literature and theoretical frameworks, this review elucidates the potential strategies in optimizing Islamic social finance mechanisms, improving transparency, efficiency, and reach. The analysis highlights key digital innovations, such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing (CC). The review also proposes a conceptual model for integrating DICs with Islamic social finance to foster greater sustainability. This theoretical examination offers insights into how digital advancements can support the long-term goals of Islamic social finance, contributing to both economic development and social welfare.
This chapter explores the transformative role of Financial Technology (FinTech) in advancing green finance, a crucial component in addressing global sustainability challenges. By integrating technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and smart contracts, FinTech facilitates the efficient allocation of capital towards sustainable projects. The chapter examines how these innovations enhance transparency, optimize risk assessment, and enable decentralized financing models like peer-to-peer energy trading and tokenization. Additionally, it addresses the challenges posed by greenwashing, market volatility, and regulatory uncertainty, while highlighting the future opportunities for growth in green finance. Ultimately, the chapter underscores the potential of FinTech to drive systemic change and promote a low-carbon, sustainable economy.