Startup Social

Innovation can be defined in may different ways. Some say it has to be disruptive or a breakthrough while others see smaller changes as innovative, as long as they create value.

We like to define innovation as something fresh, whether new, original or improved, and something that creates value (source). In its essence, social innovation can thus be described as something fresh that brings value primarily for society instead of single individuals or organisations.

Here are a few more definitions of social innovation:

• Social innovation is the application of innovation and design thinking methodology to address community and social problems. Social innovation is grounded in a commitment to sustainable, just, and democratic systems that benefit marginalized groups and society (source).
• Social innovation is the process of developing and deploying effective solutions to challenging and often systemic social and environmental issues in support of social progress (source).
• Social innovation means developing new ideas, services and models to better address social issues. It invites input from public and private actors, including civil society, to improve social services (source).

Are you thirsty for more? Check this out and here is even a whole report on the issue!

The social innovation teams will receive:

• 8 weeks programme in social entrepreneurship
• Office space
• Assistance in idea development and implementation
• Training from Icelandic and foreign experts in social innovation and entrepreneurship
• Network of mentors who will share their experience and provide support to individual teams