Social Innovation Canada’s Post

SI Canada's CEO, Andrea Nemtin (M.S.M.) is heading to the screening of “Trainwreck!” (https://trainwreckfilm.ca/) tonight in Hamilton, Ontario. As the film’s trailer makes clear, despite all the benefits of transit-oriented development, it triggers the displacement and exclusion of vulnerable populations, increasing the cost of housing, and reducing the supply of affordable units where we need them most. For the past 18 months, SI Canada has been working with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Société canadienne d'hypothèques et de logement(SCHL), City Of Hamilton Hamilton Community Foundation - Ontario, Canada, Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative (CHEC) Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Hamilton is Home and the Hamilton Community Benefits Network - as well as many others - to identify and co-create innovative solutions that advance the preservation of existing and the creation of new Transit Oriented Affordable Housing. We know from our work together that current transit and housing planning approaches can compound issues of affordability in every city and region in Canada. We need a new, systemic way forward. Equitable transit oriented development seeks to address housing affordability and inclusion as part of the development process. Our collaboration aims to pilot and refine a three pronged strategy: 🧠 Knowledge mobilization and cost-efficient technical support created for and with municipalities, community housing providers and purpose-driven developers; 🤝 A structured engagement process to support collaboration among stakeholders and create an inclusive and integrated housing plan; 💲 Targeted social financing tools to provide community housing providers with timely and affordable financing. Learn about the challenges and barriers to equitable transit and housing development, and our approach to overcoming them: https://lnkd.in/gka5TF53 Addressing the housing crisis requires an all-hands-on-deck approach and all sectors and communities have a role to play. The Hamilton Transit Oriented Affordable Housing Lab is funded by the National Housing Strategy’s Solutions Labs program, administered through CMHC. These labs fuel collaborative innovation by bringing together diverse groups of people to solve complex housing problems, including in-depth research, prototyping and testing of potential solutions. McMaster University LURA Consulting Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) CP Planning FirstOntario Credit Union Good Shepherd Services Haerko Inc Hamilton East Kiwanis Non-Profit Homes Inc Housing Assessment Resource Tools (HART) Indwell Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada | Logement, Infrastructures et Collectivités Canada Infrastructure Ontario Meridian Credit Union Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Victoria Park Community Homes West End Home Builders' Association YWCA Hamilton Matthew Green Neil Lumsden

Looking forward to the screening of “Trainwreck!” tonight in Hamilton, Ontario. As the film’s trailer makes clear, despite all the benefits of transit-oriented development, it triggers the displacement and exclusion of vulnerable populations, increasing the cost of housing, and reducing the supply of affordable units where we need them most. According to the filmmakers, the impacts in Hamilton to date include: 90+ buildings already acquired by Metrolinx 168 tenant households displaced Tenants and small business owners feeling pressure to leave For the past 18 months, Hamilton-based and national stakeholders have been working together with SI Canada on this problem, and have designed a compelling approach to ensure equitable transit oriented development can become commonplace - first for Hamilton itself and then for cities everywhere. The Hamilton Transit Oriented Affordable Housing Lab  has been funded by the CMHC National Housing Strategy’s Solutions Labs program. These labs fuel collaborative innovation by bringing together diverse groups of people to solve complex housing problems, including in-depth research, prototyping and testing of potential solutions. Learn more about the challenges and barriers to equitable transit and housing development, and the approach to overcoming them: https://lnkd.in/gK-rvbnq @Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Société canadienne d'hypothèques et de logement(SCHL) @Federation of Canadian Municipalities @City Of Hamilton @Hamilton Community Foundation @Hamilton Community Benefits Network (Facebook) @Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative (Facebook) @McMaster University @LURA Consulting @Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) @CP Planning @FirstOntario Credit Union @Good Shepherd Hamilton & Toronto (Facebook) @Haerko Inc @Kiwanis Homes Inc. (Facebook) @Housing Assessment Resource Tools (HART) @Indwell @Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada | Logement, Infrastructures et Collectivités Canada @Infrastructure Ontario @Meridian Credit Union @Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services @Sacajawea Non-Profit Housing  (Facebook) @TD @Victoria Park Community Homes @West End Home Builders' Association @YWCA Hamilton @Matthew Green (Hamilton Centre) @NeilLumsden @Monique Taylor, MPP for Hamilton Mountain (Facebook) Mayor Andrea Horwath @AndreaHorwath (Twitter/X) @Hamilton Economic Development, @hamiltonclt (Facebook)

Yesterday the Government of Canada announced the launch of the Canada Public Transit Fund, a new $30 billion investment over the first ten years to expand public transit and make it more accessible across the country. In the announcement they proudly cite: To access long-term, predictable funding through this program, municipalities will need to take actions that directly unlock housing supply. This includes measures to: ➡ Eliminate all mandatory minimum parking requirements within 800 metres of a high-frequency transit line. ➡ Allow high-density housing within 800 metres of a high-frequency transit line. ➡ Allow high-density housing within 800 metres of post-secondary institutions. ➡ Complete a housing needs assessment for all communities with a population greater than 30,000. These requirements miss (at least) one critical thing! While this transit investment is certainly welcome news for people and planet, current transit and housing development approaches in Canada can trigger the displacement and exclusion of vulnerable populations, increasing the cost of housing and reducing the supply of affordable units where we need them most. The Hamilton Transit Oriented Affordable Housing Lab has been working to address the unintended consequences of transit investment on affordable housing for 18 months, building off a huge body of work in the Solutions Labs program funded by CMHC. Read about the progress of the Lab and the proposed new approach to Equitable Transit Oriented Development here: https://lnkd.in/gF2Kgyee #SolutionsLabs #ETOD #TOD #Equity Andrea Nemtin (M.S.M.)Social Innovation Canada City Of Hamilton Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Société canadienne d'hypothèques et de logement(SCHL)

The Power of Social Infrastructure: Building Stronger, Connected Communities 🌟 When we think of "infrastructure," many of us picture roads, bridges, or towering skyscrapers. But there’s another form of infrastructure that’s just as critical yet often overlooked: social infrastructure. This invisible force shapes how we connect, thrive, and build resilient communities. What Is Social Infrastructure? 🏡🌳 Social infrastructure refers to the spaces, facilities, and networks that foster connection and well-being. Think of libraries, parks, community centres, schools, and even informal "third places" like local cafes or skate parks. These are the settings where relationships form, where cultures mix, and where towns transform into thriving communities. The Growing Problem: Isolation in a Hyper-Connected World 📱❌ Over the last decade, social disconnection has risen sharply. Why? 👉 Many of the places that once brought us together have been diminished or replaced by commercialised spaces. 👉 Urban planning frequently prioritises cars over pedestrians or cyclists, making it harder for kids and families to safely gather outside. 👉 With fewer opportunities for real-world interaction, young people turn to digital spaces, which often lack the richness of in-person connection. The impacts are real: poorer mental health, weaker community bonds, and economic struggles for small businesses. How Social Infrastructure Can Turn the Tide 🌱🤝 We can reverse this trend by investing in spaces and services that bring people together. Imagine: ✔️ Places designed to invite families, teens, and seniors to gather and interact. ✔️ A library that offers programs connecting diverse groups through learning. ✔️ Walkable neighbourhoods where people can meet at local cafes, community gardens, or sports facilities. Movements like Strong Towns are leading the charge by advocating for walkable, people-first towns. Their principles remind us that when communities are designed with people, magic happens. Investing in social infrastructure isn’t just about building places it’s about building resilience. In times of crisis, communities with strong social bonds recover faster. Economically, socially, and emotionally, these investments pay dividends for generations. As we plan for the future, let’s not forget the invisible forces that hold our towns and cities together. By creating and sustaining spaces that bring people closer, we can tackle the growing challenges of isolation and disconnection. Whether it’s physical or digital, human-centred design should always be the goal. 💡 What’s one example of great social infrastructure in your community? Read More Here https://lnkd.in/g8gFU9Rx #SocialInfrastructure #CommunityBuilding #UrbanDesign #Resilience #StrongTowns #MentalHealth #HumanCenteredDesign

Transforming Informal Settlements: A Visionary Initiative by The Breadwinner In South Africa, informal settlements are home to millions of people who endure inadequate living conditions, exposed to extreme weather and unsafe environments. This challenge has sparked a revolutionary initiative led by Rashaad Dawood, the Managing Director of The Breadwinner, in collaboration with Heart 2 Heart, to provide affordable, dignified housing through Modular Building Innovative Technology (MIBT). The Power of Modular Building Technology MIBT is a game-changer for addressing the housing crisis in informal settlements. Modular units are constructed off-site, allowing them to be assembled quickly and at a reduced cost compared to traditional building methods. This speed and efficiency are crucial for scaling the project, enabling The Breadwinner and Heart 2 Heart to provide safe and quality homes to families that currently live in vulnerable, makeshift shelters. Tackling the Heat: Thermal Efficiency for Better Living A key advantage of MIBT is its thermal efficiency, an essential feature for informal settlements where homes are often made of tin, trapping excessive heat. The new modular homes incorporate thermal insulation, regulating indoor temperatures and protecting residents from extreme heat in the summer and cold in the winter. This innovation directly addresses a critical survival issue. Studies show that prolonged heat exposure increases health risks, especially for pregnant women, children, and the elderly—populations that are particularly vulnerable in these communities. With thermally efficient housing, residents will experience enhanced well-being, reduced health risks, and a better quality of life. Supporting Global Climate Goals. MIBT not only improves living conditions but also aligns with global climate initiatives like the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP). These modular homes feature a low-carbon footprint and energy-efficient designs, contributing to the fight against climate change while meeting the urgent housing needs of informal settlements. A Call to Action This initiative is the brainchild of Rashaad Dawood, whose leadership has driven this groundbreaking collaboration between The Breadwinner and Heart 2 Heart. But we cannot do this alone. We invite organizations, policy-makers, and community leaders to join us in this mission to transform housing for South Africa’s most vulnerable. Together, we can provide more than just shelter—we can create resilient, sustainable homes that uplift communities and bring hope. By leveraging MIBT, this project is redefining housing in informal settlements, offering thermally efficient, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable homes to families who need them the most. Join us in building a future where everyone has a safe and dignified place to call home. We are building more than just houses—we are building hope! #AffordableHousing#GreenBuilding#ClimateConstruction#FCLP#SDG

Druids Heath regeneration takes a step forward as masterplan is unveiled Birmingham City Council unveiled an ambitious masterplan proposal for the regeneration of Druids Heath to the community this week at a launch event at Manningford Hall. The masterplan was developed after two years of work, talking with and listening to the community to create a plan that can meet the needs of the people who live and work in Druids Heath. Staff were at the launch event to answer questions and receive the feedback from the community about the plans, with more events planned over the next few days. An extensive consultation on the plans will begin in the coming months before approval for the plans will be sought next year. The proposed regeneration aims to make Druids Heath a more sustainable and greener place to live in the long term. New high-quality, energy-efficient homes will be built alongside excellent green spaces. The commercial and community spaces in Druids Heath will also be revitalised as part of the plan. Councillor Jayne Francis, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: "The masterplan marks the beginning of a new chapter for the regeneration of Druids Heath. "This new plan shows how Druids Heath will be transformed into a healthier, more sustainable area by building on its key strengths - community spirit and abundance of green space. "This regeneration scheme will build the types of homes we need to tackle climate change, reduce fuel bills, and contribute to the city's net zero ambitions. https://lnkd.in/eJ_gdWrV

To Win Over NIMBYs, Build Workforce Housing That Resonates When NIMBY (not in my backyard) groups oppose new workforce housing developments, they inadvertently hinder middle-income rental housing availability. Without these housing options for those earning 60 to 120 percent of the area median income, home prices and rents continue to rise, displacing service workers who contribute to thriving communities. How can developers overcome this opposition and find consensus? 1. Address Traffic Concerns: NIMBYs often cite traffic as a major issue. Developers can alleviate these concerns by conducting traffic studies and presenting data-backed solutions. 2. Empirical Evidence: Research, such as the Livable Cities Lab study at UC Irvine, shows that adding workforce housing can reduce crime rates in neighborhoods. 3. Property Values: Developers should be prepared to counter the misconception that increased density lowers property values. Empirical evidence suggests otherwise. 4. Personalize Residents: Describe the people who will live in the proposed workforce housing. Avoid caricatures and foster understanding. 5. Community Outreach: Face-to-face meetings with NIMBYs are essential. Despite factual arguments, expect skepticism. 6. Thoughtful Design: Consider proximity and design when planning workforce housing projects. 7. Acknowledgment: Sometimes opponents just need to feel heard. Offer a pared-down project that provides essential housing at an attainable price. 8. Light Touch Density: Communities are warming up to the idea of moderate density increases (e.g., duplexes, triplexes, townhouses) as an alternative to single-family homes. By implementing these strategies, developers can turn "no" into "yes" and create housing solutions that resonate with both communities and NIMBYs. 🏡🌟Learn more: https://lnkd.in/getSrq74

Since 2019, I've had a vision and mission to advance and catalyse more affordable, community-focused and led, and regenerative housing and neighbourhoods and formed Common Ground as a means to do so and have been offering my consulting services, developed resources, and created connections. Since that time, I'm becoming more clear as what would best serve this mission, to build capability and support this sector, that results in the creation of houses, neighbourhoods, communities. I'm realising that I cannot do this mission alone and would like to form a not-for-profit entity (social enterprise, limited equity cooperative, for-purpose business) made up of a professional paid team and with a board, so that Common Ground can be more effective and advance this mission. The niche that this social enterprise fills is known as collective or community-led housing, between charity-government-provided housing and market housing, The social enterprise would develop a set of services and programmes (such as feasibility/needs assessments, development assistance, community engagement, channelling funding, policies, training, and roadmap) that can be accessed and used throughout Aotearoa. I want to also explore what funding can support this organisation. I'm particularly interested in advancing neighbourhoods in rural areas as I believe we need housing in rural areas that take a non-sprawl approach, that instead create circular economies, micro-villages, and regenerate the land with agro-ecological methods. I’m looking for professionals who want to work on this mission and explore the best structure for impact and financial viability. I welcome housing/community development professionals and people with board experience to meet with me to discuss how we can work together. Some of the organisations that I see are doing this well on which I'm basing a business model include: Communities Housing Trust in Scotland: https://www.chtrust.co.uk/ and the guide they created for community-led housing: https://lnkd.in/gvyZSUtY CoHousing Australia: https://lnkd.in/gr9626Ti and the guide they created for legal and financial pathways to resident-led housing: https://lnkd.in/gsu9-Hm3 Community-Led Homes: https://lnkd.in/gCEvcs4i Microlife Institute: https://lnkd.in/gBMYq92a Ecological Land Cooperative: https://lnkd.in/gVKga9yB Orange Splot: https://lnkd.in/gCufjgqJ Square One Villages: https://lnkd.in/ga4WsYRT I've wanted to do a PhD on the topic as there's a lot of research needed to underpin and give credibility this mission, showcase international models to emulate, and identify a roadmap and resources specific to Aotearoa. I'm still figuring out if a PhD is the right vehicle to accomplish this and would need to find funding to support the research. I welcome your input and discussions.

NEW REPORT | Constructing Consensus: The case for community-powered development and regeneration “The perception that development is “done to” communities rather than “with” communities gives oxygen to local NIMBY narratives that development is foisted upon them with no opportunity to shape or influence the nature of it.” In a report out today, we make the case for a better system of development in England – one that fully involves and empowers communities in decision-making. We argue that the government’s ambitious housebuilding targets will be at risk unless the planning system gives communities more power and influence to shape local development. Key findings: 🏠 Local communities can be pro-housing development when they are more meaningfully involved in decisions and have a stake in the outcome. 📈 Involving communities in regeneration schemes can increase their quality and sustainability. 📍 Where local authorities have the power and resources to place shape and ensure developers prioritise community needs, better housing delivery follows. In it we set out a vision for a renewed approach to regeneration and development which builds in the role, voice and influence of communities. To achieve this, we offer practical recommendations for policymakers and planners. Illustrated by dozens of national and international examples, including: ✅ Communities taking on ambitious regeneration projects in Plymouth, Hastings and Grimsby – with positive economic and societal impact. ✅ Councils like Test Valley fully involving local people in planning and securing buy-in and better development as a result. ✅ And international case studies of Dublin, Vienna and Zurich that demonstrate the wider potential of better housing policy. Read the report 👀 https://lnkd.in/eVNSGZ6D Listen to the key findings on our podcast 👂 https://lnkd.in/eguzn9YV Let us know what you think in the comments 👇 Thanks to our partners Browne Jacobson and Local Partnerships LLP for working with us on this research 🙌 and to the brilliant people behind the report's case studies 🔎 Nudge Community Builders, Hastings Commons, East Marsh United, Test Valley Borough Council, South Dublin County Council, Grosvenor, The Earls Court Development Company, Citu + many more.

Sharing this excellent (practical, hopeful) paper on the potential for greater and richer community involvement with development in the UK, and how it could be enabled. One of the major hurdles I've encountered is that 'local people' just don't believe they will be listened to, so "it's a waste of time" them engaging. What could help? - More storytelling about citizen agency and its positive outcomes - More bridges built in development narratives, and in real life, between 'the blue suits' and the people living next door - More education in plain language about the planning and development process. Hats off to the New Local and Local Partnerships teams for the insights.