Hope or hype: Can social innovation really deliver?

How can we turn great ideas into lasting social impact? In this episode of the OECD Podcast, Shayne MacLachlan speaks with Jeroen Jutte, Head of the European Social Fund Coordination Unit at the European Commission. They explore how the EU is using its flagship funding instrument to support and scale social innovation—from pilot projects in disadvantaged communities to multi-country initiatives reaching millions. With funding of over €2 billion dedicated to social innovation, the ESF+ offers a powerful model for using public investment to solve social challenges. Tune in to learn how Europe is taking ideas from the ground and turning them into lasting change. To learn more on ESF+: Discover the Local Development Forum: Read the report Starting, Scaling and Sustaining Social Innovation: Evidence and Impact of the European Social Fund: Host: Shayne MacLachlan, Public Affairs and Communications Manager at the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities Guest: Jeroen Jutte leads the European Social Fund Plus coordination unit in the Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion DG of the European Commission. He has also led units dealing with Romania/Bulgaria, the European Semester (EU economic governance), and one dealing with budget discharge as well as relations with the European Court of Auditors. Mr. Jutte is a macro economist by training. To learn more about the OECD, our global reach, and how to join us, go to To keep up with latest at the OECD, visit Get the latest OECD content delivered directly to your inbox!

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Hope or hype: Can social innovation really deliver? is an episode from OECD by OECD.

This episode is 00:18:40 long.

This episode was published on Jul 7, 2025.

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