Delivering the types of homes communities need
Social Innovation Hub
A Social Innovation Hub
What We Do
A Different Approach (ADA) is a social innovation hub dedicated to driving positive change in communities. We focus on using creative, sustainable solutions to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Our mission is to reimagine traditional systems - particularly in housing, community development, and local economies - by bringing together diverse stakeholders, innovative ideas, and community-driven action.
Our Approach
We believe that true innovation happens when communities are at the center of change. Our work is built around three key principals:
Community Empowerment
We engage directly with communities to understand their needs, challenges, and aspirations. By listening closely to local residents, we co-create solutions that are not only effective but also reflect the values and needs of the people who will benefit from them. This ensures that our initiatives are meaningful, sustainable, and tailored to real-world contexts.
Sustainable Development
We prioritise long-term, environmentally sustainable practices in everything we do. From building eco-friendly homes to promoting green technologies and energy efficiency, our goal is to create solutions that protect the environment while addressing pressing social needs. We also work to enhance local biodiversity and ensure that our projects harmonise with the natural world.
Economic Resilience
Our work goes beyond providing housing or services; we aim to strengthen local economies by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and fostering entrepreneurship. By developing initiatives that empower individuals and organisations within communities, we help build stronger, more resilient local economies that can thrive long after our projects are complete.
What We Offer
Innovative Housing Solutions
At ADA, we don’t just build houses; we create homes that meet the unique needs of communities. Whether it’s affordable housing for low-income families, accessible homes for elderly residents, or environmentally sustainable buildings, we design spaces that promote independence, health, and well-being. Our focus is on creating long-lasting homes that empower individuals and foster strong community connections.
Community-Led Projects
We believe that social innovation starts from within communities. Through partnerships with local councils, organisations, and residents, we co-create projects that address specific community challenges - whether that’s building public spaces, offering social services, or creating shared community hubs. We help turn local ideas into impactful, scalable projects.
Collaboration & Partnerships
ADA acts as a facilitator - bringing together a wide range of partners, from local governments and businesses to nonprofits and community groups. We foster collaboration across sectors to generate innovative solutions to complex problems. This collective approach ensures that the projects we create are multifaceted, holistic, and have broad support, creating sustainable impact.
Training and Skill Development
As part of our commitment to local economic resilience, we provide training programs that build skills in construction, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and other areas critical to community growth. These programs empower individuals, enhance their employability, and support local economies.
Our Impact
Social Change
We tackle key social issues like housing inequality, social isolation, and community fragmentation. By building affordable homes, creating intergenerational spaces, and fostering strong community networks, we help reduce social disparities and promote inclusion.
Environmental Impact
Every project we undertake is designed with sustainability in mind. From energy-efficient homes to community-led environmental programs, we work to reduce carbon footprints, enhance biodiversity, and preserve natural resources for future generations.
Economic Empowerment
Our projects create jobs, support local businesses, and invest in the local economy. We help communities become self-sustaining by focusing on creating economic opportunities that continue to grow and thrive long after the project is completed.