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Social Innovation

Social innovation means finding new solutions to social problems that are more effective, efficient, sustainable or just than current solutions. This creative approach to improving our community is at the heart of the work we do at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Our social innovation programs identify, develop and advance nonprofit and for-profit social ventures that deliver never-before-seen solutions to North Texas’ most urgent challenges in education, income and health.
Invest in Social Innovation

Social Innovation Lab

The United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Social Innovation Lab encourages the creation of bold new solutions for issues of education, income and health in North Texas. The programs provide entrepreneurs with the critical resources—funding, mentorship and community connections—to accelerate the growth and stability of their innovative ventures, specific to their distinct stage of growth.

7.1

million dollars

in funding, training and mentoring provided to fellows since 2013

140

North Texas social entrepreneurs

have completed the Accelerator and Incubator programs since 2013

2,600+

partnerships

forged by fellows since 2013

Innovation Challenges

Through our first social innovation challenge, we identified, elevated and activated creative, technology-forward solutions for increasing access to preventive pediatric care and improving social/emotional wellness and mental health.

10

finalists
with game-changing health solutions

$1M

in prize funding to activate these technology tools across North Texas
Every
major hospital
system
in North Texas was involved, driving innovation through collaboration
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Invest in Social Innovation at United Way

When you invest in United Way, you create lasting change right here in our community. The money raised here stays here to improve access to education, income and health so all North Texans can thrive.

In the News

Meet the Innovators Chosen for Our 2026 Social Innovation Accelerator Cohort

For 100 years, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas has united the community to make a positive impact. In fact, it’s one of the reasons we’re able to change more…
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Dallas Unites to Drive Meaningful Change Through Social Innovation at The Pitch

On Wednesday, April 9, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, with the support of our Centennial Innovation sponsor, Goldman Sachs, united 1,000 change-makers from…
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Our 5 Pitch Finalists Have Big Dreams for Big D—and They’re Making Them a Reality

Meet our 5 Finalists Meet our finalists and get ready to cheer on your favorites. At the end of the night, you’ll help determine who wins prize funding by cast…
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Through the Social Innovation Accelerator, the Live United Movement Has Positively Impacted More Than 500,000 North Texans

More than a decade ago, the team at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas had an idea that would significantly accelerate our impact in education, income and healt…
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Get to Know Our New Social Innovation Incubator Fellows

As we kick off an exciting new year at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we’re thrilled to unveil the 15 dynamic social entrepreneurs selected for the newest…
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    Let’s Connect

    We are launching a new social innovation initiative and are looking to connect with early-stage social entrepreneurs developing bold ideas. Please fill out the brief form below and someone from our team may reach out for a follow-up call.