Five levers to strengthen the impact of social innovation

As the Innovation Hub enters its second year, lessons are crystallising and ambitions are taking shape. Through shared experiences, strategic reflection and close collaboration with innovators and partners, five key levers are emerging to strengthen the impact of supported projects. These insights are not just reflections, they are guiding actions and shaping a more effective and sustainable approach for scaling.

Lesson 1: Strategic scaling means achieving impact step by step

Scaling innovation isn’t just about growth ; it’s about smart, evidence-based progress. The April 2025 bootcamp in Kampala highlighted the need to invest time in refining scaling strategies and assessing readiness early on. This means translating broad learning questions into testable assumptions, then using real-world evidence to validate them. With cycles of action, measurement and adaptation, scaling becomes grounded in reality, not just ambition.

For instance, the LONGA project by Farm Radio International in Mali and Uganda is working to make its solution open source, replicate it across organisations, integrate it into government service delivery, and explore commercial opportunities

Lesson 2: Partnerships bring expertise and dedicated support

One of the Innovation Hub’s core principles is treating relationships, with grantees, internal expertise and external consultants, as genuine partnerships. The Innovation Hub aims to connect unlikely actors, challenges the status quo, and moves forward through shared learning and bold experimentation. The Innovation Hub approach is based on needs-driven, evidence-based and powered by collaboration.

That’s why the Innovation Hub works closely with partners like BRINK, CGIAR and The Engine Room, who provide tailored support in areas such as business models, scaling readiness and responsible data governance.

Lesson 3: Collaboration and non-financial support drive innovation

Innovation flourishes through connection and holistic support. A key success of the Innovation Hub is the strengthening of peer-to-peer relationships through the Knowledge Exchange Network (KEN). This growing network brings together the 21 supported projects, Enabel teams, EU partners and other innovation actors, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and lasting impact.

The first focused on business models and explored how robust financial strategies can sustain innovation beyond grant funding. The second addressed advocacy and communication tactics for government adoption. It highlighted the importance of defining a clear advocacy strategy, setting priorities, and clarifying the roles and mandates of different stakeholders.

Lesson 4: Define your “Endgame” for lasting impact

A clear endgame, meaning the long-term vision of impact, is essential. Inspired by the work of Alice Gugelev and Andrew Stern, innovators are encouraged to look beyond short-term milestones and define the deeper lasting change they aim to create. This perspective ensures that scaling strategies are not just about growth, but about meaningful and sustainable transformation.

For instance, the Tap&Track project from Stichting Practica envisions its app as a solution for water utilities across Africa and South Asia, adapted to local contexts, policy frameworks and existing platforms. This clarity helps guide strategic decisions and resource allocation.

Lesson 5: Powerful narratives and pitching unlock opportunities

Effectively communicating the value and impact of innovation is vital for scaling. One of the Innovation Hub’ support is helping projects refine their storytelling and pitching skills. A compelling narrative, clearly expressing the innovation’s purpose, solution and potential, is key to attract partners and future investors. Without it, even the most promising ideas may struggle to gain traction.

The next gathering, planned for early 2026, will be an opportunity to put these skills into practice, with a focus on identifying and connecting with future scaling partners. Building these relationships is a cornerstone of the DAC Guidance on Scaling Development Outcomes, which continues to inform the Innovation Hub’s work.

These lessons are more than reflections : they are stepping stones. With sharper strategies, stronger partnerships and a clearer vision, the Innovation Hub is supporting innovation and co-creating impact side by side with its 21 innovators. Together with partners and innovators, we continue to learn, connect, scale what works and test new scaling strategies. The journey continues.