Project Number: 2023-2-PL01-KA220-YOU-000171409
MOBIUS MODULE 10
Sustainability & social impact (what’s next for the
innovators)
The Mobius project has been funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the National Agency (NA). Neitherthe European Union nor NA can be held responsible for them.
Agenda:
- Definition
- Systems change
- Human-centered design
- Sustainability dimensions
- What is social impact?
- Key theories
- SROI & Theory of Change
- Lifecycle application
- Circular economySDGs & ESG alignment
- Technology for sustainability
- Cross-sector collaboration
- Key barriers
- Practical solutions
- Strategic frameworks
In a world facing growing social, economic, and environmental challenges, innovation must do more than just create new products or services — it must create lasting positive impact. This presentation explores sustainable social innovation: how new ideas, approaches, and collaborations can lead to systemic change that empowers communities, promotes equity, and protects our planet. Through practical frameworks, real-world examples, and global trends, we will uncover how innovation can be designed not only to solve problems, but to do so in a way that lasts.
What will you learn?
KNOWLEDGE
- You will understand the principles of sustainability.
- You will learn about project management methodologies.
SKILLS
- You will be able to assess and measure social impact effectively.
- You will be able to manage projects.
- You will know how to lead organizations undergoing change.
ATTITUDES
- You will approach innovation with a long-term and systems-thinking mindset.
- You will value equity, inclusion, and cross-sector collaboration.
- You will be committed to creating sustainable social value.
10.1 SustainableSocial Innovation
This section introduces the core principles of sustainable social innovation—new ideas and strategies that aim to meet social needs more effectively and equitably. It focuses on long- term systems change, human-centered design, and balancing environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
What Is Social Innovation?
- Social innovation refers to new strategies, concepts, ideas, and organizations that meet social needs (education, health, community development, etc.) in ways that are more effective, efficient, sustainable, or just than existing solutions. Unlike purely technological or market-based innovations, the goal is positive social change.
- New strategies that meet social needs more effectively than current solutions.
What Makes It Sustainable?
- Sustainable social innovation integrates long-term environmental, economic, and social sustainability into the core of innovation efforts. It seeks systemic change, not just short-term fixes.
- Incorporates environmental, economic, and social sustainability for long-term impact. (Goes beyond temporary fixes.)
The best way to learn is through visualisation and listening. We have selected a video, go ahead and give it a watch!
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
Sustainability
- Environment: reduce carbon footprint, waste, resource consumption.
- Social: Empowers communities, reduces inequality.
- Economic: Builds financially viable models that can expand.
Scalability and replicability
- Solutions must be designed to grow and adapt in different contexts.
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
Collaboration and cross-sector collaboration
- Involves partnerships between different sectors (private, public and civil society).
- Promotes shared value and co-creation.
Inclusion and Equity
- Focuses on marginalized, underrepresented groups.
- Addresses root causes of exclusion and poverty.
- Examples – Grameen Bank, Fairphone, Ecovillages, M-Pesa, Toilet Board Coalition
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
You can explore the core ideas through this short innovation activity.
10.2 Social Impact & Evaluation
Innovation only matters if it creates lasting, positivechange. This section explores how social impact isdefined and measured, highlighting key theories like theImpact Value Chain, Social Return on Investment (SROI),and Theory of Change, to assess the value andeffectiveness of innovation.
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
What is social impact?
Social impact refers to significant, positive changes that aim to address social challenges - such as poverty, inequality, education, health and the environment - as a result of targeted actions or interventions. What is important about social innovation is not justthe activity or the outcome, but the lasting change it brings to the lives of people, communities and systems. Lasting positive change in people’s lives and systems caused by innovatin.
Impact Value Chain
Input: Resources invested (e.g., funding, tools) Output: Activities delivered (e.g., training sessions) Outcome: Short-/mid-term effects (e.g., skills gained) Impact: Long-term system-level change
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Theories Supporting Systemic Impact
Systems Change Theory: Lasting impact comes from altering norms, policies, institutions. Stakeholder Theory: All stakeholders should benefit, especially marginalized ones. Capabilities Approach: Enhancing people’s freedoms and opportunities.
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
What is SROI?
SROI (Social Return on Investment) – Measures social, environmental, economic value created per dollar invested Example: $1 invested = $3 of social value
SROI Process
1. Define scope and stakeholders 2. Map inputs to outcomes (impact mapping) 3. Assign monetary value and prove results
Strengths & Limitations of SROI
Strengths of SROI: Promotes accountability, universal language Limitations of SROI: Resource-heavy, may simplify complex issues
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Theory of Change (ToC):
Framework to explain how and why change occurs Includes inputs, activities, outcomes, and long-term impact
ToC: Strengths & Limitations
ToC Strengths – Flexible, highlights assumptions ToC Limitations – Doesn’t monetize; may oversimplify
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Comparison (SROI vs ToC):
SROI: Measures value ToC: Explains pathways
Strengths:
Flexible and participatory Highlights assumptions and risks Useful for planning, communication, and evaluation
Limitations:
Doesn’t assign monetary value Can be overly linear or simplistic for complex systems
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
How These Tools Fit in the Social Innovation Lifecycle
Idea & Design → Use Theory of Change to structure the innovationPilot & Scale → Apply SROI to assess value and secure fundingEvaluation & Learning → Combine both to adapt and improve
The best way to learn is through visualisation and listening. We have selected a video, go ahead and give it a watch!
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
You can apply what you’ve learned through this short impact exercise.
Imagine the following project: Reducing youth unemployment in a small town. And consider the question:
10.3 Trends in SocialInnovation Sustainability
As the world changes, so does the landscape of socialinnovation. This section presents key global trends—such as circular economy, digital solutions, and cross-sector partnerships—that shape how sustainable innovation is designed, implemented, and scaled today.
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Key Trends in Sustainability
Circular Economy: Shifting from a linear "take-make-dispose" model to a circular one that emphasizes reuse, recycling, and waste reduction. Integration of SDGs and ESG: Aligning social innovation initiatives with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the ESG framework to enhance business impact and compliance. Technology for Sustainability: Utilizing technologies like IoT, AI, and data analytics to monitor environmental impact, optimize resource use, and develop sustainable solutions. Cross-Sector Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between public, private, and non-profit sectors to leverage diverse expertise and resources for social innovation.
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Theories Behind Trends
Institutional Theory – Policy and legal ecosystems shape how innovations scale. Network Theory – Innovation grows in cross-sector networks and collaboration. Systems Innovation Theory – Focus on changing full systems (e.g., food, education).
If you are still wondering why Social Innovation, watch the video:
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Here's how to memorize quickly and easily
- Circular Economy – Focus on reuse, recycling, and zero waste
- SDG & ESG Alignment – Link projects with global sustainability goals
- Technology for Sustainability – IoT, AI, and data for environmental impact
- Cross-Sector Collaboration – Shared resources and knowledge
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
You can see how the trends connect through this brief sustainability activity.
10.4 Challenges andBest Practices
Social innovation faces real-world challenges that canlimit its reach and impact. In this section, we identifycommon barriers such as funding gaps, fragmentation,and equity issues, and outline proven best practices andframeworks for achieving sustainable, long-term change.
10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
Many innovations remain local due to lack of funding, infrastructure, or policy support
Explanation
Challenge
Many innovations remain local due tolack of funding, infrastructure, or policy support
Scaling impact
Funding gaps and short-
Project-based funding limits long-termsustainability
termism
Lack of coordination leads to duplicatedor conflicting initiatives
Fragmentation of efforts
Measuring long-term
Difficulty in attributing impact in complex
impact
systems
Innovations often overlook the needs ofmarginalized groups
Inclusion and Equity
10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
Best Practices in Social Innovation Sustainability
- Useful tip: Based on theory and global case studies, the following practices emerge as essential for achieving lasting and sustainable social impact.
- Theoretical basis:- Theory of Change: guides strategic planning and evaluation.- Triple bottom line (Elkington): Balances social, environmental and economic goals.
- Design thinking and human-centred design: Puts users and stakeholders at the centre of the innovation process.
10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
You can reflect on the key ideas through this simple self-reflection task.
Resources Page
- Cabinet Office. (2009). A guide to Social Return on Investment. London: The Cabinet Office. https://socialvalueuk.org/resources/a-guide-to-social-return-on-investment-2012/
- Organizational Research Services. (2004). Theory of change: A practical tool for action, results and learning. Seattle, WA: Annie E. Casey Foundation.
- Mulgan, G. (2006). The process of social innovation. Innovations: Technology, Governance, Globalization, 1(2), 145–162. https://direct.mit.edu/itgg/article/1/2/145/9448/The-Process-of-Social-Innovation
- TEDx Talks. (2015, March 26). The social value of impact measurement | Alexandra M. Toma | TEDxMidAtlantic. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDCYc_0h13g
- Nicholls, A., Lawlor, E., Neitzert, E., & Goodspeed, T. (2015). Measuring social impact: A guide for social entrepreneurs. Oxford: Oxford University.
It’s time to test your knowledge from the module! Take this quiz!
10. Module 10 Sustainability & social impact
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Transcript
Project Number: 2023-2-PL01-KA220-YOU-000171409
MOBIUS MODULE 10
Sustainability & social impact (what’s next for the
innovators)
The Mobius project has been funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the National Agency (NA). Neitherthe European Union nor NA can be held responsible for them.
Agenda:
In a world facing growing social, economic, and environmental challenges, innovation must do more than just create new products or services — it must create lasting positive impact. This presentation explores sustainable social innovation: how new ideas, approaches, and collaborations can lead to systemic change that empowers communities, promotes equity, and protects our planet. Through practical frameworks, real-world examples, and global trends, we will uncover how innovation can be designed not only to solve problems, but to do so in a way that lasts.
What will you learn?
KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
ATTITUDES
10.1 SustainableSocial Innovation
This section introduces the core principles of sustainable social innovation—new ideas and strategies that aim to meet social needs more effectively and equitably. It focuses on long- term systems change, human-centered design, and balancing environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
What Is Social Innovation?
What Makes It Sustainable?
The best way to learn is through visualisation and listening. We have selected a video, go ahead and give it a watch!
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
Sustainability
Scalability and replicability
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
Collaboration and cross-sector collaboration
Inclusion and Equity
10.1 Sustainable Social Innovation
You can explore the core ideas through this short innovation activity.
10.2 Social Impact & Evaluation
Innovation only matters if it creates lasting, positivechange. This section explores how social impact isdefined and measured, highlighting key theories like theImpact Value Chain, Social Return on Investment (SROI),and Theory of Change, to assess the value andeffectiveness of innovation.
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
What is social impact?
Social impact refers to significant, positive changes that aim to address social challenges - such as poverty, inequality, education, health and the environment - as a result of targeted actions or interventions. What is important about social innovation is not justthe activity or the outcome, but the lasting change it brings to the lives of people, communities and systems. Lasting positive change in people’s lives and systems caused by innovatin.
Impact Value Chain
Input: Resources invested (e.g., funding, tools) Output: Activities delivered (e.g., training sessions) Outcome: Short-/mid-term effects (e.g., skills gained) Impact: Long-term system-level change
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Theories Supporting Systemic Impact
Systems Change Theory: Lasting impact comes from altering norms, policies, institutions. Stakeholder Theory: All stakeholders should benefit, especially marginalized ones. Capabilities Approach: Enhancing people’s freedoms and opportunities.
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
What is SROI?
SROI (Social Return on Investment) – Measures social, environmental, economic value created per dollar invested Example: $1 invested = $3 of social value
SROI Process
1. Define scope and stakeholders 2. Map inputs to outcomes (impact mapping) 3. Assign monetary value and prove results
Strengths & Limitations of SROI
Strengths of SROI: Promotes accountability, universal language Limitations of SROI: Resource-heavy, may simplify complex issues
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Theory of Change (ToC):
Framework to explain how and why change occurs Includes inputs, activities, outcomes, and long-term impact
ToC: Strengths & Limitations
ToC Strengths – Flexible, highlights assumptions ToC Limitations – Doesn’t monetize; may oversimplify
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
Comparison (SROI vs ToC):
SROI: Measures value ToC: Explains pathways
Strengths:
Flexible and participatory Highlights assumptions and risks Useful for planning, communication, and evaluation
Limitations:
Doesn’t assign monetary value Can be overly linear or simplistic for complex systems
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
How These Tools Fit in the Social Innovation Lifecycle
Idea & Design → Use Theory of Change to structure the innovationPilot & Scale → Apply SROI to assess value and secure fundingEvaluation & Learning → Combine both to adapt and improve
The best way to learn is through visualisation and listening. We have selected a video, go ahead and give it a watch!
10.2 Social Impact and Evaluation
You can apply what you’ve learned through this short impact exercise.
Imagine the following project: Reducing youth unemployment in a small town. And consider the question:
10.3 Trends in SocialInnovation Sustainability
As the world changes, so does the landscape of socialinnovation. This section presents key global trends—such as circular economy, digital solutions, and cross-sector partnerships—that shape how sustainable innovation is designed, implemented, and scaled today.
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Key Trends in Sustainability
Circular Economy: Shifting from a linear "take-make-dispose" model to a circular one that emphasizes reuse, recycling, and waste reduction. Integration of SDGs and ESG: Aligning social innovation initiatives with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the ESG framework to enhance business impact and compliance. Technology for Sustainability: Utilizing technologies like IoT, AI, and data analytics to monitor environmental impact, optimize resource use, and develop sustainable solutions. Cross-Sector Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between public, private, and non-profit sectors to leverage diverse expertise and resources for social innovation.
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Theories Behind Trends
Institutional Theory – Policy and legal ecosystems shape how innovations scale. Network Theory – Innovation grows in cross-sector networks and collaboration. Systems Innovation Theory – Focus on changing full systems (e.g., food, education).
If you are still wondering why Social Innovation, watch the video:
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
Here's how to memorize quickly and easily
10.3 Trends in Social Innovation Sustainability
You can see how the trends connect through this brief sustainability activity.
10.4 Challenges andBest Practices
Social innovation faces real-world challenges that canlimit its reach and impact. In this section, we identifycommon barriers such as funding gaps, fragmentation,and equity issues, and outline proven best practices andframeworks for achieving sustainable, long-term change.
10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
Many innovations remain local due to lack of funding, infrastructure, or policy support
Explanation
Challenge
Many innovations remain local due tolack of funding, infrastructure, or policy support
Scaling impact
Funding gaps and short-
Project-based funding limits long-termsustainability
termism
Lack of coordination leads to duplicatedor conflicting initiatives
Fragmentation of efforts
Measuring long-term
Difficulty in attributing impact in complex
impact
systems
Innovations often overlook the needs ofmarginalized groups
Inclusion and Equity
10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
Best Practices in Social Innovation Sustainability
- Theoretical basis:- Theory of Change: guides strategic planning and evaluation.- Triple bottom line (Elkington): Balances social, environmental and economic goals.
- Design thinking and human-centred design: Puts users and stakeholders at the centre of the innovation process.10.4 Challenges and Best Practices
You can reflect on the key ideas through this simple self-reflection task.
Resources Page
It’s time to test your knowledge from the module! Take this quiz!