Scaling Science
Why scaling science?
For IDRC, “scaling impact” implies optimizing results in ways that will matter to people and our planet. By critically reflecting on how we can make the most of our investments in research and scale impact, we have learned that there is no single approach or method to make this happen.
Scaling science is borne of the belief that we can be more systematic and scientific about the way we scale, and that by doing so we increase the likelihood that our research will effect meaningful change. Scaling science is about maximizing the positive impacts of innovation while carefully studying how scaling unfolds.
IDRC did not invent the scaling science concept; it is a description of the creativity and imagination of the innovators we have worked with and our reflections on their work.
Scaling impact for sustainable development
Scaling impact is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring that innovative solutions reach the people and places that need them most. This course equips you with the knowledge and tools to scale responsibly — balancing ambition with equity and sustainability.
Whether you are a researcher, practitioner, funder, policymaker, or student working toward sustainable and inclusive development, this course is designed for you. Taught by a global faculty of leading researchers and practitioners, it combines concise video lectures on theory with real-world case studies and interactive activities you can complete at your own pace.
Free course on scaling impact
Learn how to scale research and innovation. This free course from IDRC, based on 50+ years of experience, is available on the SDG Academy, a program of the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
Scaling science in research for development
Evaluation of IDRC’s strategy to scale research results
IDRC commissioned an external evaluation to assess the implementation of our 2015–2020 Strategy to invest in knowledge and innovation for large-scale positive change. This was an opportunity to gather diverse perspectives and learn from the experiences of the global research community, including IDRC, as well as other funders and research teams who are leading efforts to scale the impact of their work. The evaluation highlighted important insights regarding the practices, systems and processes that can support or hinder efforts to scale impact.