Social Innovation LAISVĖ Cluster CLM

Why Social Innovation?

The Philosophy Behind Our Name

"Laisvė" meaning "freedom" in Lithuanian, reflects the guiding philosophy of our cluster: the belief that true innovation and sustainable impact stem from the freedom to explore, collaborate, and transform. This concept of freedom underpins every dimension of our work, from fostering inclusive partnerships to empowering local communities and bridging global connections. By choosing "Laisvė" as our name, we commit to a vision of empowerment, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions that redefine social and ecological innovation.

The «Laisvė» philosophy is about liberating the potential within individuals, communities, and organizations to pioneer solutions that address complex societal challenges. In a world that demands bold responses to urgent issues like sustainability, social equity, and climate resilience, freedom signifies the openness required to experiment with new ideas, methods, and collaborations. Through Laisvė, we aim to create a safe, dynamic space where creative thinking and social experimentation can flourish without barriers, fostering a climate where everyone can contribute and grow.

Laisvė also speaks to the freedom to empower others. Our work is grounded in the idea that social innovation thrives when people and communities feel a sense of agency and purpose. The freedom that Laisvė represents ensures that all members of our ecosystem—public institutions, private enterprises, academic partners, and civil society—have the autonomy and support they need to drive meaningful change. It’s a freedom that promotes collaborative, human-centered solutions aligned with a commitment to Society 5.0, where technology and innovation serve the greater good.

In an interconnected world, freedom also reflects the fluidity of exchange that allows our local innovations to resonate on a global scale. The philosophy of Laisvė encourages us to transcend geographical and institutional boundaries, enabling shared knowledge, practices, and values. By embracing this openness, Laisvė aims to position itself as a global catalyst for positive impact, connecting local insights with international initiatives to address «wicked problems» collectively.

At its core, Laisvė represents the freedom to lead the way in social innovation. By fostering an environment that values collaboration, experimentation, and accountability, we’re creating a model that empowers everyone involved to become active changemakers. Laisvė embodies a commitment to future-proofing our communities, enabling growth that is as inclusive and resilient as it is impactful. Through this philosophy, we not only promote sustainable and transformative innovation but also invite others to join us in shaping a world defined by freedom, empowerment, and shared success.