Back to EventsCurrent Issues in Sustainability Panel: Philanthropy and Sustainable Innovation
Philanthropic organizations have become central to the promotion, definition, and funding of ‘innovation’ as an answer to the challenges of social and environmental sustainability. Sustainable futures are increasingly thought to rest on the ability of governments, companies, investors, and civil society groups to innovate and innovate well: to improve socio-environmental conditions through intentional, disruptive changes. Whether regionally focused, like The Pittsburgh Foundation, or globally oriented, like the Rockefeller Foundation, philanthropic organizations are attempting to galvanize multi-sectoral interest in innovation for sustainability. This panel session will bring together three people to discuss the roles, opportunities and challenges associated with philanthropy-driven sustainable innovation practices. Emmie Calland (The Pittsburgh Foundation) will discuss how the Pittsburgh Foundation uses responsible philanthropy to shape innovative solutions to the critical needs of Pittsburgh communities. Dr Emily Rosenman (Penn State University) will discuss philanthropic-led innovation in racial justice and economic development in the Detroit region, and Dr Tom Baker (University of Auckland, New Zealand) will discuss how and why city governments around the world have turned to philanthropic organizations (such as Bloomberg Philanthropies) to enact institutional innovation.
Register for Event4:30 pm to 5:30 pm