Introduction

We are a centre for social innovation based in London, with a 50 year track record of success in creating new organizations - public, private and non-profit - as well as influencing ideas and policies.

Our Launchpad team creates innovative new organisations in health and education.

Our Local Innovation team works on practical projects involving neighbourhoods, wellbeing and the future of cities.

Our research team studies the dynamics of social innovation and changing needs. We work locally around our base in east London, throughout the UK as well as internationally.

The Foundation was launched in 2005, but builds on a long history. Our predecessor organisations under Michael Young were responsible for far-reaching innovations ranging from the creation of the Open University and Which? to the School for Social Entrepreneurs, as well as pioneering research on changing patterns of community and family life.

Since 2005 a new team has been brought together from NGOs, government, business and academia. Our focus is on fields where we see the greatest potential for social innovation. These include areas where problems are intensifying (from diversity to mental illness), where existing models are failing (such as criminal justice), and where new possibilities are arising (for example, because of new technology).

We are also working with partner organisations on a number of fronts to build the social innovation field internationally, including practical work, research, networking and new tools. Read more.