The Centre for Livelihoods and Social Innovation (CLSI) was established with the purpose of strengthening theoretical understanding and innovate methods, skills and practices in enabling the poor and vulnerable sections of the population to access improved livelihood opportunities and resources. The CLSI strives towards exploring alternative models and frameworks in enhancing the livelihood opportunities and resource access for the poor. It has a mandate to develop talented professionals who are capable of co-designing livelihood strategies and approaches that is grounded on empowerment, security and opportunity of the poor and marginalised sections of the population. It anchors the M.A. Social Work programme in Livelihoods and Social Entrepreneurship.

The CLSI envisions to evolve as:

• a policy think tank as well as a learning-cum-innovation centre for developing meaningful livelihood and entrepreneurial initiatives.
• a knowledge hub that designs innovative livelihood and entrepreneurial projects.
• an important platform to strengthen the capacities and skills of government and non-governmental actors in the field of livelihoods and social entrepreneurship.
• a centre of excellence in policy and applied research aimed at designing social enterprises and alternative livelihood approaches.