Philanthropy is often seen as society's risk capital. That means the onus is on philanthropists, nonprofit leaders and social entrepreneurs to innovate. But philanthropic innovation is not just about creating something new. It also means applying new thinking to old problems, processes and systems.

“They are renowned throughout the industry as one of the most leading innovators in the retail business today. They've set a standard of excellence that challenges conventional operators. The way they design their stores, the caliber of people they recruit and retain, the innovation they bring to the food system is truly unique and differentiated.”

“As industrial designers, we?re often in the middle of marketing and engineering. We have to be looking for those engineering innovations that can offer our clients a competitive advantage. … We were very impressed with the number of products and just the innovation from a manufacturing standpoint.”

“Notwithstanding [the Apple setback], we believe the pace of innovation behind our new technologies is accelerating.”

“The reason I chose him is he makes an effort to go after a more innovative artist.”

“There is no doubt about it that the work being done at some of the Indian subsidiaries of multinational technology companies is innovation.”

“Procter & Gamble truly sets the bar when it comes to identifying and implementing innovative retail solutions.”

“Vertex's cystic fibrosis research program has yielded two innovative approaches for the treatment of this disease.”

“Unless we 'think outside of the box' in crafting innovative and immediate solutions, these abuses will continue and escalate.”

“There was no question that this new stadium would be an environmental leader, an example of innovative recycling and other green techniques.”