New Office, New Solutions, New Opportunities: USAID’s DIV in Action

Opening Doors: USAID’s DIV and Our New Global Outreach

We are thrilled to announce the opening of our new office, a testament to our commitment to global development and an opportunity to extend our reach and impact worldwide. As we mark this significant milestone, we look back at the journey of USAID’s Development Innovation Ventures (DIV) and its incredible impact on global development.
A Legacy of Innovation and Impact

Development Innovation Ventures was USAID’s open innovation program, dedicated to testing and scaling creative solutions to global development challenges. By investing in breakthrough innovations supported by rigorous evidence, DIV impacted millions of lives, offering solutions at a fraction of the usual cost.
From Bright Ideas to Global Solutions

DIV was renowned for seeking out bold development ideas, piloting them in small increments, and testing their effects. Only those solutions that demonstrated widespread impact and cost-efficiency were scaled. This approach not only fostered innovation but also ensured that effective solutions reached those who needed them most, regardless of where they were in the world.

Open innovation was at the heart of DIV, welcoming game-changing ideas from anyone, anywhere, at any time. This inclusive approach meant that whether you were a local problem solver, an enthusiastic American entrepreneur, a faith-based organization, or a university lab, your ideas were valued and had the potential to receive support.

Our Tiered Funding Approach

To support these innovations, DIV provided flexible, tiered grant funding. This funding was crucial for testing new ideas, taking strategic risks, building evidence of what works, and advancing the best solutions. The program’s structure was designed to ensure each stage of innovation was adequately supported:

Stage 1: Proof of Concept (Up to $200,000)
Stage 2: Testing and Positioning for Scale (Up to $1,500,000)
Stage 3: Scaling (Up to $5,000,000)
Evidence Grants: (Up to $1,500,000)

Continuous Learning and Engagement

DIV was not just about funding; it was about building a community of innovators. Prospective innovators were encouraged to explore the DIV portfolio and engage with ongoing projects through various platforms. Regular updates and insights were shared to keep the community informed and involved.

Connect and Collaborate

As we continue the legacy of DIV from our new office, we invite you to connect with us and join our mission to drive global development through innovation. Follow our journey on Twitter and Facebook, subscribe to our newsletter, and reach out with your ideas and insights.

This new chapter is not just about a new location—it’s about renewed possibilities and extending our impact globally. We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead to create sustainable change and improve lives worldwide.