Ockham IPS has been commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment to conduct a study on which policy goals can be supported under the Social Innovation component within the new ESF programme 20121-2027. The study examines the (knowledge) needs for social innovation and how these needs fit with the requirements of the new ESF + programme. It also examines the lessons learned regarding the design of social innovation within the current ESF programme (and previous programmes) in the Netherlands, as well as experiences from abroad. Based on this, the research identifies various starting points for the future role of Social Innovation within the Dutch ESF programme and describes (and assesses) various modalities and scenarios. The research included  adesk research, interviews with involved actors, a sounding board session, and analysis and reporting.