Formative Evaluation of the Community Innovation Fund

The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) commissioned Universalia to conduct a formative evaluation of the Community Innovation Fund (CIF). The CIF is a $CAD 1.5 million project funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), and managed and implemented by the QCGN. The QCGN plays an intermediary role for the CIF in that it identifies, finances and provides support to socially innovative projects for the English-Speaking Communities of Quebec that address the socio-economic needs and increase the well-being of vulnerable youth and seniors. The purpose of this evaluation was (a) to independently assess the progress of the CIF against its objectives as stated in its funding agreement; and (b) to support ongoing learning and improvement of CIF implementation. The scope of this evaluation focussed on the QCGN’s role as an intermediary, and the corresponding activities, outputs and outcomes outlined in the ESDC funding agreement. 

The evaluation methods used for this assignment included document review, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, observational evidence and a poll.  Document review covered key documents related to CIF, including the funding proposal and agreement, CIF governance documents (e.g., communication strategy, documents relating to project selection), CIF activity and results reports to the ESDC and partner contribution agreements. The review also looked at QCGN strategic documents related to QCGN’s vision, mission and objectives. In total, 19 interviews were conducted with a total of 26 individuals, including representatives of the CIF management and QCGN leadership, representatives of the 10 CIF-funded projects, and other stakeholders.