Cofactor Conversation Lab is a Vancouver-based not-for-profit organization that uses knowledge mobilization strategies to enhance engagement in challenges facing our society today and draw out the most relevant and useful information. A cofactor is a “helper molecule” that assists many biochemical reactions. Taking inspiration from these molecules, our organization works to connect community members and allies to create more productive conversations around issues affecting our province. While we can’t solve complex issues overnight, we can start diverse conversations earlier for a greater chance of success.
Vision: A society where dialogue inspires action
Mission: Enable dialogue and education that identifies mutually-beneficial paths to action and supports a healthy, sustainable, and prosperous society.
Our History: Our organization was founded by a handful of science PhDs after their combined experiences navigating life in the laboratory, running for public office, and governing nonprofits. Called the Science & Policy Integration Network, or the SPIN, our goal was to connect scientists and policy makers to promote knowledge sharing and evidence-informed decision making. The SPIN gained public recognition in 2018 by hosting the inaugural BC Science & Policy Conference, held at the University of British Columbia and featuring several notable public servants as speakers. From there, we continued to grow and host events aimed at bringing information to decision makers, including the general public, in a useful way.
As we immersed ourselves in these conversations, we realized that it was time to broaden our focus on policy and scientific evidence – more and more, our most successful events were about starting conversations between any groups of people from any background affected by the complex issues that we face as a society, and that each group brings a unique and valuable perspective. This led us to relaunch as Cofactor Conversation Lab in 2020 – a name that reflects our roots in science but also our desire to contribute in a real-world context.