Accelerating Social Innovation: Smart Ideas for Canada

When: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 - 09:00 – 16:00

Where: MaRS Discovery District, Toronto

This conference brought sectors together for a conversation about social innovation and how it can change the way we support and interact with each other in the 21st century. Social change is increasingly dependent on collaborative action, as well as ongoing experimentation.  In the face of constant economic and social uncertainty, meeting the needs of Canadians requires even more creativity to address current and emerging social issues. To explore the growing impact of the community sector and share perspectives on creating optimum conditions for social innovation, this conference focussed on best practices in Canada and the role of all sectors – business, government, non-profit, and academe – in leading social change.

The event featured a number of prominent speakers on the issue of social innovation. Video of the event is available through the MaRS Centre and is divided into four parts. To view the videos, click the links below.

Videos

• Opening Address by Janice Charette, Deputy Minister, HRSDC
• Session #1: Reflections on Successful Social Innovation
• Luncheon Address by Dr. Chad Gaffield, President, SSHRC
• Session #2: Leading Social Change

Speeches

• Speaking points from Janice Charette's Opening Address (PDF)
• Dr. Chad Gaffield's Luncheon Address "Tackling the World's Toughest Challenges: Integrating Business and Social Innovation for a successful 21st century" (PDF)