The social value proposition of Socio-Cultural Hybrid Spaces: insights from the OSMOSI Mapping

This chapter presents the preliminary partial results of the OSMOSI mapping, which investigates socio-cultural hybrid spaces as enablers of social innovation through cultural practices. Based on 24 survey responses from Lombardy and Sicily Italian regions, the analysis presented here focuses on the social dimension of a broader sustainability framework that also includes economic and environmental aspects. The chapter explores the spaces’ social value propositions, including their origins, promoters, identity, main activities, accessibility and the types of publics they engage - key elements that contribute to fostering social innovation. The findings highlight the relational and public-oriented nature of these spaces and outline a shared set of values, ranging from social inclusion and cohesion to territorial and cultural regeneration, including artistic and cultural innovation, critical education, and sustainability. Key patterns emerge that may inform broader policy and research on socio-cultural infrastructure.