Innovation Fund

Innovation at IISD runs deep. It is the key to our corporate culture, as with many global companies today. Firmly rooted in the philosophy that Innovation + Imagination = Realization, IISD established the Innovation Fund to do exactly that.

When You Support IISD's Innovation Fund, You help Turn Exciting New Ideas into Reality

The Institute knows that to successfully adapt to the ever-evolving global economy and environment, fresh thinking is an absolute must. Our work protects and restores ecological systems as it enhances the well-being of people and improves economic efficiency.

One of the major reasons IISD is ranked by global sustainability experts as the most effective research organization of its kind in the world is our capacity for innovation. Our Innovation Fund receives proposals from all levels of our organization because the Institute instills innovation in its everyday atmosphere, stimulating innovative input among staff and associates 24/7.

The Agenda for Sustainable Development is an Agenda for Change—INNOVATION is the SPARK that Ignites this Change

Since it began in 2004, the Innovation Fund has empowered many projects, including:

• A study of the links between the environment and human security in Sudan and China;

• An analysis of Kenya's poverty reduction strategy that demonstrated the interdependence between human development and ecosystem services; and

• An examination and assessment of the laws, guidelines and policies that promote sustainable procurement in partnership with the Energy and Resources Institute in India.

Always on the lookout for innovative ideas, techniques and solutions, the Innovation Fund provides people like you with the opportunity to invest in people who dare to dream and explore exciting new possibilities as their projects go outside the realm of traditional research. And innovative projects—like those described above and in the Innovation Fund Brochure below—often open doors to more in-depth work that can ultimately benefit the world.

Reflecting the vision, integrity and commitment of David Runnalls, the International Institute for Sustainable Development created the Innovation Fund in 2004. Firmly rooted in the philosophy that Innovation + Imagination = Realization, the fund encourages, explores and helps bring these exciting, new innovations to life.

In honour of David Runnalls’ 10-year career as IISD President and CEO, the institute has created a special commemorative fund in his name. As an integral part of the IISD Innovation Fund, it will support and inspire a wide range of sustainable research projects worldwide. It will also provide donors like you with the unique opportunity to invest in ground-breaking work outside the realm of traditional research.

The David Runnalls Fund for Sustainable Development Innovation is dedicated to projects that further the cause of global sustainability—which, of course, is what IISD is all about.

Donate to the David Runnalls Fund for Sustainable Development Innovation

This is your opportunity to show your appreciation for David Runnalls, his foresight, his years of distinguished service with IISD and his work as a champion of the sustainable development movement.

A card will be sent to David Runnalls complete with your own personal tribute message. As a donor, you will receive a gift receipt.

Please note that all gift amounts are kept strictly confidential.

During the institute’s 20th anniversary year, we invite you to salute, enhance and enrich the legacy of David Runnalls and the tradition of sustainable innovation at IISD for generations to come.

To contribute online, please click here.

Or mail your contribution to:

• The David Runnalls Fund for Sustainable Development Innovation
  International Institute for Sustainable Development
  161 Portage Avenue East, 6th Floor
  Winnipeg, MB R3B 0Y4 Canada

To contribute and for more information about the IISD Bridging the Gap between Knowing and Doing Capital Campaign, please contact us.

To contribute online, please Donate Now.