(Abstract) This paper examines the potential of Public-Social Partnerships (PSPPs) as an alternative to Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for delivering public projects in Canada. Although PPSEs are increasingly being adopted by different levels of government, there is still little research on their ability to overcome the limitations of PPPs in terms of participation and social responsibility. By examining recent cases of partnerships in the Outaouais and Laurentides regions, we explore the extent to which SEPPs can foster civic engagement and anchor the economy in social principles. To do so, we mobilize the typology of subcontracting developed by Durand Folco et al. (2020) and the typology of social effects by Dufort (2022). In conclusion, this text proposes recommendations for improving the operation of SEPPs.
Research note by Alexandre Michaud, Master’s student in social innovation