The Social Innovation Exchange (SIX) is a charitable company established in 2006, with its origins tied to a conference in Beijing where global organisations—including the Young Foundation from the UK—convened to tackle complex social challenges collectively. Shortly after, SIX was formally established and based at the Young Foundation in East London, which remains its institutional home.

SIX was founded in response to a climate dominated by social enterprise and hero-focused narratives, aiming instead for a collaborative and non-hierarchical approach to advancing social innovation. Its initial mandate was to connect practitioners internationally, share practical methods and tools, and support systematic social change rather than isolated efforts. Its work was underpinned by core values: prioritizing social impact over individual ideas, celebrating solutions, engaging honestly, and fostering openness among an international peer network.

Early on, SIX became known for flagship events such as the annual SIX Summer School, which started in San Sebastián and drew participants globally for nearly a decade. SIX’s efforts have included facilitating cross-sector conversations, supporting philanthropic funding efficacy, influencing public policy, and equipping universities and other institutions to adopt innovative practices.

Financially, data from 2023 shows SIX operates with a small leadership group: ten trustees and at least two employees in the £60,000-£80,000 salary range. Activity continues to revolve around global events, regional hubs, and collaborative projects with governments, foundations, and NGOs. The Unusual Suspects Festival in London, for which it received funding in 2014, exemplifies its initiatives to stimulate learning and build capacity within the sector.

SIX’s role today is that of a field-builder and connector, maintaining a global network while adapting to new trends and priorities in the social innovation landscape.