Social R&D

Four years of reflections on Social Innovation

In September, The Philanthropist and the McConnell Foundation co-published a new book called Social Innovation in Canada: Reflections on Past, Present and Future Directions. It explores the possibilities, opportunities and challenges that the social innovation movement has faced and will continue to face in support of transformative systems change in Canada. The book includes insights […]

Learn more

The Social Innovation Fund’s Organizational Rebuilding stream is now closed

The Organizational Rebuilding stream of the Foundation’s Social Innovation Fund’s is now closed to applications. Since its launch on May 5, 2020, this stream has received an overwhelming response. Thank you to all the organizations that took the time to submit applications. We will be announcing the successful applicants soon. The Organizational Rebuilding stream was […]

Learn more

Investing together in Canada’s Social R&D capacity

Many charities and non-profits recognize that “business as usual” will not be sufficient in addressing complex social and environmental challenges. The systems we work in are changing quickly and it is important to have space and time to learn, reflect and test new kinds of practice that might lead to better social and environmental outcomes. […]

Learn more

Wicked ecological and social challenges force us to rethink innovation policy

By Tim Draimin Senior Advisor at the McConnell Foundation and former Executive Director of Social Innovation Generation (SiG) National. This article was originally published by Re$earch Money. It has been republished here with the publisher’s permission.   Humankind has always tended to focus on the upsides of new discoveries and innovations, but the past year […]

Learn more

Catalyst: posAbilities

“Retrofitting” social services for greater inclusion What’s at stake? Research shows that people who belong to social networks experience higher levels of confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. Social networks provide practical and emotional support for people and allow them to experience a sense of opportunity and reciprocity in their communities. Social participation is key to […]

Learn more