LEAP and BCG launch accelerator to address chronic health issues
Pecaut Centre for Social Impact (LEAP) has partnered with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to launch “Healthy Futures,” an accelerator for social ventures which will help Canadians boost physical activity, eat better, and stop smoking.
According to a recent report from LEAP and BCG, chronic diseases are rising by 14% annually, with an annual economic burden estimated at $190 billion. The “Need for Action” report found that more than 40% of Canadians failed to meet physical activity guidelines, more than 70% did not eat an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables, and 16% continued to smoke.
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought more urgency to the issue of preventing chronic health issues, as those with chronic diseases and weaker immune systems are at a higher risk of more serious outcomes from the virus.
LEAP’s new Health Futures accelerator will provide strategic and operational support, coaching, and capacity building to scale ventures in Canada which tackle chronic health challenges over the next five years. Funding and pro bono consulting worth up to $10 million will be made available to 11 social ventures, with financial contribution from the Public Health Agency of Canada and funds raised by LEAP.
LEAP’s pro bono consulting partners include BCG, EY, Mccarthy Tétrault, Offord Group, Hill+Knowlton Strategies Canada, and Google.org.
"We urgently need solutions to address the social determinants of health and to change behaviours in today's world, particularly among underserved populations," said Joan Dea, board chair, LEAP. "A sustained collaboration across the public, private, and social sectors is required to achieve success. If we do not act, the rates of chronic disease will continue to grow – adversely affecting the quality of life of hundreds of thousands of Canadians and their families."
Founded in 2012 and based in Toronto, LEAP is a charity focused on non-profit sector management consulting. The organization selects, supports, and scales charities that provide real social impact – linking them with investors and private sector expertise.
"LEAP is launching the Healthy Futures accelerator from a strong foundation of facts and insights," said Kilian Berz, managing director and senior partner, BCG. "BCG is proud to be a founding partner with a role to guide the selection and support of ventures. We will provide our best services to accelerate and scale the carefully selected ventures, ensuring the greatest impact potential."
