In an independent study by York University, the evaluators reported the following as strengths of SSE Canada’s program:
- Our hallmark “action learning” method
- Character building
- Supportive classroom environment
- Subject matter expert sessions
- High quality of mentors
- Networking opportunities
- Social impact learning
Further evidence of the School’s successful development includes a favorable evaluation by York University, Startup Canada’s award for “Best Support to Entrepreneurs” in Ontario, and steady recognition of our alumni for achievements at the municipal, regional, and national levels. In evaluation data from roughly 350 Unlearning participants across our fellowships, thematic programs, and consulting clients (non-profits, government), participants rated our Unlearning program an average 3.7 out of 4 for overall value.
SSE Canada’s students tackle Ontario’s most complex and intractable problems and issues that affect all of our lives. By blending the values of social change and the tools of business growth and sustainability, our fellows stand at the cutting edge of creative ideas that make Ontario a safer, more equitable, and prosperous province.
Since opening its doors in 2012, SSE Canada has run workshops and fellowships training thousands of participants tackling tough challenges including:
- Mass transit & city infrastructure
- Environment/climate change
- Harnessing the power of immigrants, people with disabilities, and low-income families
- Violence prevention
- Access to health services
- Job creation for youth and immigrants
- Health care reform
- Sports
- Non-profit effectiveness
- Urban agriculture
- Legal reform
- Sustainable fashion
New Philanthropy Capital’s Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis of SSE London’s social entrepreneur fellowship found “the estimated average cost per student…of £8,3681 looks like extremely good value. The cost is paid back in the first year alone….The value to society alone is expected to grow by 30% in the coming year. This is in addition to the value of jobs and volunteers created by Fellows”. We plan to replicate this study with Canadian data.
