Policy Press
In an era where ‘social innovation’ is often used as a buzzword, this book challenges readers to rethink its true potential for addressing the systemic roots of our most pressing social crises. Balancing rigorous theoretical insights with actionable strategies, the book empowers and inspires readers to drive meaningful and effective social change.

In an era where ‘social innovation’ is often used as a buzzword, this book challenges readers to rethink its true potential for addressing the systemic roots of our most pressing social and environmental crises.

The authors present a practical and visionary approach to social innovation and provide a comprehensive set of tools and strategies for transformative change, rooted in a critical and emancipatory perspective. By balancing rigorous theoretical insights with actionable strategies, the book empowers and inspires readers in their efforts to confront social and environmental injustices and build the skills needed to drive meaningful and effective social change.

This is a call to action for anyone seeking to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is possible in creating a just and sustainable world.

Julie Chateauvert is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Philippe Dufort is Adjunct Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Jonathan Durand Folco is Associate Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Christopher Gunter is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Krys Maki is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Anahi Morales Hudon is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Jamel Stambouli is Associate Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Julie Paquette is Associate Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Simon Tremblay-Pepin is Associate Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Philippe Néméh-Nombré is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Amanda Wilson is Associate Professor in the School of Social Innovation at Saint Paul University, Canada.

Prologue

Introduction: Learning to Change the World

1. Innovation Beyond Buzzwords

2. The Battlefield of Social Innovation: Strategic Challenges and Paradoxes

3. Understanding the World to Change It

4. The past as Possibilities

5. Centering Intersectionality and Equity

6. Acting Collectively

7. Driving Change

8. Transforming the Economy

9. Doing Business Differently

10. Organizing Democratically

11. Community Involvement

12. Culture as Resistance

13. Where Do We Stand? Unsettling the Neoliberal University Through Engaged Pedagogy

Conclusion: Changing the Scale