Atlantic social impact ecosystem

project

Building sector capacity

We hope to support the continued development of an ecosystem that moves our economy away from extractive approaches to stronger, more sustainable futures for our communities that prioritize people and planet.

Atlantic Social Impact Ecosystem

Building Capacity

The spark that ignited this project was the recognition of opportunities amongst challenges within Atlantic Canada. The motivation is the desire to address the pressing challenges facing the region, including aging populations, healthcare issues, housing and homelessness, economic stagnation, demographic shifts, and limited philanthropic resources. The project’s driving force is the commitment to create a coordinated, inclusive, and innovative ecosystem that empowers individuals and organizations in Atlantic Canada to access the resources, capacity, and support necessary to drive positive change. This project is grounded by the belief that by strategically working together and addressing the unique needs and aspirations of the region, Atlantic Canada can achieve sustained growth and make a significant positive impact.

Our ecosystem building project takes a unique approach by focusing on building a pan-provincial ecosystem network within Atlantic Canada. While many ecosystem-building initiatives concentrate on a single city or region, our project seeks to unite all four Atlantic Canadian provinces (Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island) into a cohesive ecosystem. By breaking down provincial silos and creating the conditions for collaboration at a regional level, we can address shared challenges and leverage common opportunities.

The network is intended to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and learnings among provinces. It allows stakeholders to benefit from the successes and innovations of their counterparts, leading to a more comprehensive and effective approach to ecosystem building.

By pooling resources and expertise from multiple provinces, the pan-provincial ecosystem network becomes a more powerful force for advocating for policy changes, attracting investment, and driving social impact. This collective strength enhances the region’s capacity to address complex challenges.

The focus is on achieving transformational impact by adopting innovative approaches and strategies that go beyond surface-level improvements. There needs to recognition that achieving deeper change is a long-term commitment, demanding sustained effort and collaboration over an extended period to bring about lasting and meaningful transformation.

Atlantic Social Impact Exchange Summit 2023

From September 25th to 27th, St. John’s, NL played host to the very first Atlantic Social Impact Exchange Summit. This transformative gathering brought together innovators from across Atlantic Canada’s social impact ecosystem, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in deep and meaningful dialogues with a diverse range of participants, including impact businesses, social enterprises, academic experts, and finance intermediaries hailing from all four Atlantic provinces. This rich exchange of ideas and experiences provided valuable insights and connections that will have a lasting impact. The summit was a hub of knowledge-sharing, allowing participants to learn about the latest initiatives unfolding in the region.

Attendees expanded their understanding of social finance and explored innovative social practices that are shaping the future of the sector. This newfound knowledge promises to drive positive change and progress in the social impact landscape.

Read the full report