The primary question guiding this research is: How might social service agencies create viable organizational cultures of innovation? This research looks at recent innovation design experiences of social service organizations in Toronto. It describes the context in which these projects are pursued and acknowledges some of the current criticisms of an emerging social innovation industry.

This research is exploratory and proposes perspectives for an agency-driven framework for innovation work. These perspectives are rooted in concepts from three fields of study and practice—Systems Thinking, Participatory Design and
Traditional Knowledge.

Creative outcomes of this research look to contribute to
envisioning an Indigenizing approach to participatory design. One that acknowledges, engages and empowers some of the
most resilient, innovative and resourceful—yet displaced
individuals—in co-creating social programs and services
as well as imagining possible futures.