Social Innovation in Action 2025

As we face significant geopolitical, social and environmental challenges, the need for innovative solutions has never been more pressing. Our world is grappling with instability, polarization and disenfranchisement, while facing extreme unpredictable weather events and disasters, which have pushed an additional 23 million people into extreme poverty and exceeded critical planetary boundaries over the last two years. The United Nations report on the progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals highlights stalled progress and growing inequities. Only 17% of the goals are attainable at the current rate of progress, with minimal or moderate progress on meeting half the goals. Movement towards more than a third has stalled or even regressed. The complexities we encounter are immense, which calls for greater cooperation and inclusive solutions. In these critical times, the work of social entrepreneurs and innovators is not just relevant, it is essential. Their efforts are transforming healthcare and education, creating livelihoods for those excluded from markets and economies, and demonstrating climate action hand in hand with communities. This year, we celebrate the 2025 awardees, whose courageous leadership exemplifies the extraordinary potential of social innovation across sectors.It is notable that support and interest in social innovation is gaining momentum as is its practice, from policies that promote it in over 30 countries, to partnerships with business to reach impact at scale. From a global review of data from over 80 countries undertaken by the Schwab Foundation with our partners, we estimate that there are now over 10 million social enterprises globally, creating over 200 million jobs and generating over $2 trillion in annual revenue. Together, the community of almost 500 social entrepreneurs and innovators brought together by the Schwab Foundation has directly impacted over 931 million lives. The innovative models they employ not only revolutionize societal practices but also demonstrate that economic value creation can coexist with significant social and environmental progress. Recent findings from our annual review reveal that these innovators have collectively raised $1.25 billion in this past year alone, showcasing their ability to drive transformative change. By collaborating across sectors – public, private, civil society and philanthropy – they are amplifying their impact and mobilizing significant resources. As we reflect on the achievements of our community and look forward to the future, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting these leaders. The road ahead requires continued collaboration with all sectors, continued and diversified investment, and political recognition to scale their models and amplify their impact for the benefit of all.Welcome It is a great privilege to introduce the 2025 Schwab Foundation Awardees, a remarkable group of social entrepreneurs and innovators who embody integrity, humility and positive values in their work. This report not only highlights their extraordinary achievements but also reflects on the broader community of leading social entrepreneurs and innovators dedicated to fighting social inequalities and preserving natural ecosystems.Hilde Schwab Chairperson and Co-Founder, Schwab Foundation for Social EntrepreneurshipIt is notable that support and interest in social innovation is gaining momentum. Credit: Sommalife, Ghana Schwab Foundation 2025 Awardees and Impact Report 7