Social Innovation Lab
The Conestoga Social Innovation Lab (CSIL) fosters partnerships between Conestoga College applied researchers and cooperatives, nonprofits, social enterprises, and change-makers. These partnerships focus on solving our partners' problems to create a societal impact.
Explore a partnership
Want to explore collaborating with CSIL? Fill out the Partnership Form and/or book a meeting with our director.
Who we partner with
Partnership principles
- Social change: Our partnerships focus on supporting social change with a long-term positive societal impact.
- Community-based research: Our collaborative research approach is undertaken on behalf of and in support of organizations and change-makers.
- Applied research: Our research addresses real-world problems supporting the implementation of practical solutions.
- Knowledge mobilization: Our results are shared widely to allow others to learn from the findings.
- Student learning: Our work provides Conestoga College students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in applied social innovation research.
CSIL projects
How Canadian cooperatives and mutuals approach governance and decision-making
This research examined how governance, strategy, and organizational purpose are understood and applied by boards across Canada's cooperative and mutual sector. Drawing on interviews with organizational leaders and governance professionals, the study explored decision-making practices across mutuals, credit unions, cooperative associations, and other cooperative models.
Examining the link between inflation and mental health in the KWC region
This study investigated the relationship between economic inflation and mental health outcomes in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge region from 2015 to 2022. Drawing on data from government sources, healthcare organizations, and housing authorities, the research analyzed how financial stressors such as inflation, housing affordability, and food insecurity contribute to rising mental health challenges in the region.
Exploring food, belonging, and community through narrative with international students
This mixed-methods research project explored the connections between food, storytelling, and community-building among international students at Conestoga. In partnership with the Kuwait Aid Network, the team conducted a student survey, hosted community consultations, and gathered qualitative data through four writing pop-up events that invited students to share stories and reflections related to food, identity, and belonging.
Our team
Meet our subject matter experts
By the numbers (2025)
11
Partners
16
Active projects
13
Students hired
Contact
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