UCalgary crafts a definition of social innovation for post-secondary institutions

In an era where societal challenges are increasingly complex and interwoven, post-secondary institutions are stepping up as catalysts for meaningful change. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive and actionable framework, UCalgary is excited to unveil a definition of social innovation for post-secondary institutions.

Published in the Nature journal, Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, this recognition underscores the significance, rigor, and approach to the fundamental concepts of social innovation.

“Crafting this definition was a deeply collaborative process that drew on extensive research and diverse perspectives. It reflects our dedication to understanding and actively addressing social challenges through integrative and evidence-based approaches,” says Dr. Karen Benzies, PhD, director of the university's Social Innovation Initiative.

What is social innovation?

Social innovation is the intentional implementation of a transdisciplinary initiative to address a social challenge enabled through collaborative action, leading to new or improved capabilities and relationships with community. This approach aims to generate evidence-informed, more effective, efficient, just, and sustainable solutions.

By breaking down the definition, we can better understand the aspects of social innovation and how we know it.

Transdisciplinary initiatives

At the heart of our definition is the concept of transdisciplinary initiatives. These initiatives transcend traditional boundaries, integrating knowledge and methods from multiple fields to address complex social challenges. This approach ensures solutions are innovative and comprehensive, drawing on a wide range of expertise and perspectives.

Collaborative action

Collaboration is a cornerstone of effective social innovation. Our definition emphasizes the importance of collaborative action, which involves engaging a variety of stakeholders including students, faculty, community organizations, and policymakers – to co-create solutions. This effort fosters a richer understanding of social challenges and enhances the capacity to implement effective interventions.

Evidence-informed solutions

The emphasis on evidence-informed solutions reflects a commitment to creating interventions grounded in research and proven practices. Theoretically sound and practical solutions are designed by leveraging data and insights from research. 

This understanding of social innovation guides and inspires future collaborations that prioritize lasting impact within our communities. 

“Our commitment to social innovation is about more than just addressing immediate needs; it’s about fostering long-term, sustainable change,” says Dr. Katrina Milaney, PhD, associate vice-president (research). “By defining social innovation in this way, we are setting a clear path to engage meaningfully with our communities and contribute to solutions that create positive change.”

Looking ahead

This definition advances understanding and lays the groundwork to inspire and guide post-secondary institutions in their pursuit of social innovation. Some universities have already adopted this work. 

“This paper provides additional insight into the University of North Carolina’s mission to provide innovations for the public good for the people of our state, says Dr. William Romani, director, design and innovation for the public good, University of North Carolina. “It also adds valuable context for how post-secondary institutions can apply a social innovation framework and incentives for faculty who are addressing our mission to serve and measure the impact we are providing to our communities.”

UCalgary welcomes the academic community and partners to engage with this definition, contribute to its evolution, and join our commitment to transformative change. Work continues collaborating with international academic leaders to refine measurement frameworks as UCalgary proudly hosts the 2025 International Social Innovation Research Conference. Together, let’s harness research and learning to drive social innovation and make a lasting impact on society.

Learn more about the Social Innovation Initiative and UCalgary’s Social Innovation Ecosystem here.