Mount Royal University has created a 5,000-square-foot space in the Bissett School of Business where community organizations, social ventures and students can collaborate and innovate to address social or environmental challenges.
The Trico Changemakers Studio has received funding from Trico Homes ($500,000), the Trico Charitable Foundation ($500,000) and the government of Canada’s Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund ($500,000).
“Trico Homes and the Trico Foundation are proud to support the Trico Changemakers Studio as it builds community and encourages making a difference for people and planet,” said Wayne Chiu, Trico Homes’ CEO, in a news release.
The Trico Changemakers Studio is a joint initiative between the Institute for Community Prosperity, the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and the Bissett School of Business.
Groups include: Alberta Health Services, Calgary Arts Development Authority, Canada Bridges, Changemakers in Residence, Generation Indigenous, REAP, Student Energy, The Sedge, Thrive, United Way Calgary, Universal Access, and Worthington PR and Story.
Studio director Jill Andres said changemakers come from different backgrounds, sectors and disciplines.
“This diversity is represented in our studio members and the people who take part in our social impact facilitation offerings. We have social entrepreneurs, artists, activists, and students – and every single one of them is essential if we want to make progress towards addressing complex issues. We’re so pleased to have members that represent the expanse of the social innovation ecosystem,” she said.
Mount Royal University in southwest Calgary was founded in 1910 and close to 14,000 students attend the post-secondary institution, which has 12 bachelor degree programs offering 32 majors.
Mario Toneguzzi is a veteran Calgary-based journalist who worked for 35 years for the Calgary Herald, including 12 years as a senior business writer.