The Social Finance Forum, presented by Future of Good, is a premier event in the field of social innovation and plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of social finance. Held annually, the 2024 forum promises to be a significant gathering for those dedicated to creating sustainable and impactful social change.
To shed light on this important event, we spoke with Kelli Stevens, who is attending the event and works for a national philanthropic organization.
“While more people and organizations are talking about social finance, momentum is still needed to turn more ideas into more action. The Social Finance Forum is one way that we can work together to do that,” shares Kelli.
In addition, the forum can serve as a catalyst for transforming conversations into tangible actions, providing a platform for stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and push the boundaries of what is possible in social finance.
A key aspect of the Social Finance Forum is its focus on networking. As Kelli explains, social innovation requires “bringing people together to share diverse perspectives and ideas.” This networking fosters a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives converge to create meaningful solutions.
There is a growing buzz around change-makers and game-changing ideas. According to Kelli, that is just one step toward changing the future of business. “Change-making ideas are only as good as what their implementation allows for…and implementation of new ideas depends on the ability to build trusting relationships and a willingness to work across potential divides. If we’re going to get past buzzwords, we need to be able to work together in authentic ways.”
This perspective highlights the importance of authentic collaboration and trust-building in turning innovative ideas into actionable strategies that can drive real change.
For those attending the Social Finance Forum, the opportunities for learning and growth are immense. “I’ve been an active learner in social finance for a few years, but I know I still have a lot to gain from others’ expertise – at this event and others,” Kelli acknowledges.
The forum is not just about sharing knowledge but also about gaining insights from others’ experiences, fostering a continuous learning environment.
One of the themes that stand out for Kelli is the work being done by the Ontario Trillium Foundation in the Place-Based Investing stream. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ontario Trillium Foundation on social finance – off and on over the last few years. I’m looking forward to seeing what they’ve been able to support in the Place-Based Investing stream.”
This focus on specific topics allows attendees to delve deeper into areas of interest and see firsthand the impact of collaborative efforts.
The Social Finance Forum in Calgary is being held at the Social Innovation Hub. Kelli shares her positive experience with the Hub: “I’ve had the privilege to work with Innovate Calgary while supporting the Social Innovation Hub and UCalgary. I’ve also participated in learning opportunities with the Hub’s staff and leadership – in ways that have helped me see their expertise as well as their wonderful personalities! Holding the Social Finance Forum at the Hub will be a great opportunity for anyone who has the chance to be there!”
The Hub, with its focus on fostering new entrepreneurs and innovation, provides an ideal venue for the forum, offering attendees a chance to connect with leading experts and innovators in the field.
The Social Finance Forum is more than just an event; it is a movement towards meaningful change and collaborative innovation. By bringing together a diverse group of thinkers and doers, the forum paves the way for turning ideas into impactful actions, shaping the future of social finance and social innovation.
Interested in attending the two-day event? Register below.
About the Social Finance Forum
Presented By Future Of Good Media And SVX, The Reimagined Social Finance Forum Convenes 1,000+ Changemakers From Coast-To-Coast-To-Coast To Learn Actionable Insights, Celebrate Game-Changing Ideas, Convene Community, Activate Capital And Reshape Investment And Finance Tools For A Better Future.