About IDRC
We support research and innovation led by people closest to the world’s toughest challenges
The International Development Research Centre’s (IDRC) story is rooted in a moment of global change. In the late 1960s, Canadian leaders such as former Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson saw rising inequality and asked a bold question: What if knowledge could bridge the divide? Their answer sparked the creation of IDRC by Canada’s Parliament in 1970 – the world’s first institution dedicated to supporting and funding high-quality research led by low- and middle-income countries.
More than 50 years later, IDRC remains a unique and strategic element of Canada’s international engagement. Year after year, IDRC invests and nurtures a dynamic network of research institutions that are producing practical solutions to complex global challenges, putting Canada and the world on a path to a safer, more prosperous future.
We know from experience that solutions work best when they are created by the people closest to the challenge. This principle drives our work to generate evidence, strengthen institutions and inform policies that improve lives. We invest in practical, locally led research to identify problems, develop solutions and inform sound public policy across a range of disciplines to improve economic development, advance health, education and food systems, support strong science, technology and innovation systems and protect human rights.
We are based in Ottawa, Canada, with regional offices in Montevideo, Uruguay, Nairobi, Kenya, Dakar, Senegal, Amman, Jordan and New Delhi, India. Our regional presence keeps us close to the issues and ideas shaping communities and enables us to work alongside the innovators driving sustainable and inclusive change.
As global challenges become more interconnected – from economic disruption to technological shifts – the world needs strong partnerships and reliable evidence. IDRC’s founding conviction remains as relevant today as ever before: When knowledge is shared, everyone benefits. By strengthening partnerships and supporting locally led innovation, IDRC helps develop solutions that improve lives worldwide and benefit Canadians. Because tomorrow is shaped by the innovations of today, no matter where they are born.
Strategy 2030
Our strategy reaffirms our commitment to investing in high-quality research and innovation, sharing knowledge and mobilizing global alliances to support more sustainable and inclusive societies.
Policies and commitments
We are committed to the principle that clear, accessible policies are essential for transparency, accountability and trust. View the principles and standards that guide our work.
Leadership
IDRC’s leadership champions and supports evidence‑based research for development and guides the Centre’s strategic direction.
Annual review
Find previously published IDRC annual reports, presenting financial statements and results while highlighting IDRC-funded researchers, key projects, achievements, and strategic priorities.
Careers
Explore open positions within the centre and join our mission to help build a more sustainable and inclusive world.
Transparency
IDRC promotes transparency by sharing information through its website, publications, parliamentary reports, outreach activities, and by making project results openly accessible through its Digital Library.
Visual identity and branding
Find guidance on how to use IDRC's logo and more about the centre's visual identity.