The DIV Fund (Development Innovation Ventures Fund) serves as a global R&D engine for development, backing bold innovations that aim to improve millions of lives in a cost-effective way. Innovative ideas have the power to transform lives—but turning those ideas into scalable, impactful solutions requires the right kind of support. Through a structured funding model and a strong emphasis on evidence, the fund helps innovators move from early-stage concepts to large-scale solutions. What the DIV Fund Does At its core, the DIV Fund combines risk-tolerant capital with evidence-based decision-making. This means it is willing to invest in promising but unproven ideas, while also rigorously evaluating what works and what doesn’t. Its portfolio approach balances experimentation with measurable outcomes, ensuring that only the most effective and scalable innovations receive continued support. The fund is open to a wide range of sectors and solutions, provided they demonstrate the potential to deliver meaningful social impact at scale. A Tiered Approach to Funding One of the defining features of the DIV Fund is its staged funding model. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all grant, it provides support across three distinct stages—each aligned with the maturity and needs of an innovation. Stage 1: Pilot (Up to $200,000) This entry-level stage supports early testing of new ideas in real-world conditions. The goal is to determine whether an innovation is feasible, whether users will adopt it, and whether it shows enough promise to justify further investment. By the end of Stage 1, applicants should be able to demonstrate that their solution works in practice and addresses a real need. Stage 2: Test & Position for Scale (Up to $500,000–$750,000) At this stage, the focus shifts to rigorous validation. Funding is used to measure impact, test business models, and refine strategies for growth. This may include conducting impact evaluations, expanding into new markets, or strengthening operational systems. The aim is to prove that the innovation significantly improves lives, is cost-effective, and has a credible pathway to scaling. Stage 3: Scale (Up to $1.5 million) Stage 3 supports innovations that have already demonstrated strong evidence of impact and are ready for expansion. These grants help organizations scale their solutions to reach large populations, often through partnerships with governments, private sector actors, or development institutions. By this stage, the innovation should be positioned to achieve sustained impact without long-term reliance on grant funding. Core Criteria for Selection Every application to the DIV Fund is assessed against three key principles: 1. Evidence of ImpactApplicants must show that their innovation improves lives. Early-stage applicants should present a strong theory of change, while later-stage applicants are expected to provide rigorous, data-backed evidence. 2. Cost-EffectivenessThe fund prioritizes solutions that deliver greater impact per dollar compared to existing alternatives. This could mean reducing costs, increasing outcomes, or both. 3. Potential for Durable ScaleA central goal is to support innovations capable of reaching at least one million people. Applicants must outline a clear and sustainable path to scale, whether through public funding, private markets, or hybrid models. The Application Process Applying to the DIV Fund is a structured, multi-step process designed to identify high-potential innovations and support them effectively. 1. Review the Request for Proposals (RFP)Before applying, applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully review the RFP. This document outlines funding priorities, evaluation criteria, and expectations for each stage. 2. Submit an ApplicationApplications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year via the fund’s online portal. Initial submissions focus on the innovation’s concept, potential impact, and alignment with DIV’s criteria. 3. Application ReviewSubmitted proposals are assessed for overall fit, including innovation strength, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and team capacity. Only the most promising applications move forward. 4. Due DiligenceShortlisted applicants enter a detailed evaluation phase. This involves deeper analysis of the innovation, supporting evidence, risks, and scaling strategy. External experts may also be consulted. 5. Decision PanelFinal funding decisions are made by expert panels convened multiple times per year. These panels determine which projects receive funding and may request refinements before approval. 6. Pre-Award and Grant StructuringSuccessful applicants proceed to the pre-award stage, where funding is tied to specific milestones. Financial due diligence is conducted, and grant agreements are finalized. Who Can Apply? The DIV Fund is open to a wide range of applicants, including nonprofits, for-profit companies, researchers, and social enterprises. There is no strict geographic limitation, and collaborations with academic institutions or partners are encouraged. However, all applicants must present: A clear and credible innovation Evidence or a strong theory of impact A realistic and scalable implementation plan Demonstrated team capability Why the DIV Fund Matters In a crowded development landscape, many ideas struggle to move beyond pilot stages due to lack of funding or evidence. The DIV Fund addresses this gap by supporting innovations through every phase of growth—while maintaining a relentless focus on measurable impact and efficiency. For innovators committed to solving global challenges, the fund offers more than just financial support. It provides a pathway to validate ideas, refine models, and ultimately scale solutions that can transform lives at a meaningful level. Final Thoughts The DIV Fund stands out as a strategic partner for changemakers who are serious about impact. Its emphasis on evidence, cost-effectiveness, and scalability ensures that funded innovations are not only promising but also practical and sustainable. For individuals and organizations with bold ideas and a commitment to improving lives, applying to the DIV Fund could be the first step toward achieving large-scale, lasting impact. LEARN MORE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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