What is the New Solutions Social Innovation Lab?
The New Solutions Social Innovation Lab is a practical, step-by-step programme designed to help people turn ideas for social change into real, testable solutions.
The Lab is a structured development programme made up of 8 workshops, combining online sessions with in-person events, delivered by experienced practitioners and subject experts.
Over the course of the programme, participants will:
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Explore and define a social problem
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Develop and shape an idea in response
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Test and refine that idea in practice
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Build the skills needed to progress beyond the Lab
The Lab is a project of the wider New Solutions Social Innovation Fund, which aims to strengthen the social innovation ecosystem in Ireland and support new ideas to emerge and grow.
Who is it for?
The Lab is designed for early-stage or prospective social innovators.
This includes:
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People with an idea (or the beginning of one)
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People who are passionate about a social issue they want to address
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Community activists, volunteers, or those involved in local initiatives
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Students or graduates interested in social innovation
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Anyone with lived experience of a social challenge
You do not need to have a fully formed idea – or any prior experience of social innovation or social enterprise – to apply.
Why apply?
The Lab is designed to be practical, inclusive, and action-focused.
By taking part, you will:
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Learn how to turn ideas into real-world solutions
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Develop practical tools and skills for social innovation
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Test your idea in a supportive environment
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Connect with others working on similar challenges
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Access guidance from experienced practitioners
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Explore pathways to further support and funding
Participants will also have the opportunity to apply for one of a small number of €5,000 seed grant to help progress their idea beyond the Lab.
Programme Format
8 workshops delivered fortnightly
Mix of online and in-person sessions
Programme begins in late-September or October 2026
Participation is free of charge
Eligibility
Applications are open to individuals, groups, and organisations.
You are not required to have:
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A fully developed idea
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A detailed plan
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Experience in social innovation
However, you should demonstrate a willingness to explore a social issue and develop a solution over the course of the Lab.
How to Apply
To apply, complete the short online application form. You will be asked about:
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Your motivation for taking part
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What you hope to gain from the Lab
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The social issue(s) you are interested in
Application Deadline: 12 July 2026
Where can I Learn More?
To find out more about the New Solutions Lab and whether it is right for you:
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Read the Applicant Guide
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Attend an Introductory Event taking place around the country:
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PorterShed, Galway – 9th June, 7–9pm | Register Here
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Guinness Enterprise Centre, Dublin – 16th June, 1.30–3.45pm | Register Here
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Northside Community Centre, Sligo – 19th June, 11am–1.30pm | Register Here
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Nano Nagle Place, Cork – 22nd June, 1.30–3.40pm | Register Here
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Introductory events will give you an overview of the Lab, help you understand what to expect, and provide an opportunity to meet others interested in social innovation.