Through non-profit and for-profit organizations and projects, social innovation mobilizes technology applications, business solutions and policy ingenuity to address difficult social and environmental problems in a scaleable, sustainable way. Social innovation is attracting the attention of foundations, governments, universities, granting councils and the private sector, as well as social organizations and movements. This session will examine the emerging and important role of social innovation as implemented through social enterprises and social entrepreneurship from three perspectives: the general framework for understanding these concepts, the perspective of a grant-maker to non-profits and charities, and the perspective of a major corporation committed to social responsibility.

Introduction by session chair: Edward Jackson, Carleton University

Dr. Jackson will chair the opening session of the conference on Social Innovation, sponsored by the Sprott School of Business and the Faculty of Public Affairs at Carleton University.

Overview-concepts & framework: François Brouard, Sprott School of Business

The presentation will give a brief overview of the concepts and will present a framework regarding social enterprises and social entrepreneurship.

Perspective of a Grant-Maker to Non-Profits: Suzanne Bédard, Trillium Foundation

Mrs. Bédard will present a funder’s perspective on the importance of supporting social innovation and supporting the growth of social economy and social entrepreneurship.

Perspective from a for profit organization: Robert Waite, Canada Post

Mr. Waite will describe the key drivers that determine corporate social and community program strategy and execution. He will outline the need for charities and non-profits to better understand the need for corporations to better align their philanthropic activities with brand management needs and stakeholder expectations. He will use the CIBC Run for the Cure, the Canwest Canspell national spelling bee (presented by Canada Post) and Canada Post's Mental Health Foundation as relevant examples.