Measuring impact

At the heart of our work is the belief that innovation can transform lives—especially in unserved and underserved communities around the globe.

At the heart of our work is the belief that innovation can transform lives—especially in unserved and underserved communities. Our commitment to measuring impact goes beyond numbers; it’s about real people and real change. Through our investments, we’ve reached nearly 80 million people to date, improving access to services and innovations that are saving and improving lives.

Our approach to measuring impact ensures that we not only track results but also understand the long-term benefits of the innovations we fund.

From improving sanitation for millions of people without access to safe toilets to funding apps that provide tailored guidance and support to pregnant mothers, we are seeing firsthand the ripple effect of innovation.

** Note: these numbers reflect Grand Challenges Canada's impact as of March 31, 2024.

By the Numbers

reached

GCC-funded innovations have reached 79.4 million people worldwide

innovations

GCC has supported more than 1,500 innovations to date

lives improved

26.3 million lives have been improved by GCC-supported innovations

lives saved

Since 2010, GCC-supported innovations have saved 85,700 lives

countries

GCC innovations have been implemented in 106 countries worldwide

locally-led innovations

2/3 of GCC-funded innovations are locally led by innovators based in LMICs

policies influenced

GCC-supported innovations have influenced 355 policies, regulations or pieces of legislation

Canadian innovations

GCC has invested in 374 projects led by Canadian-based institutions

$2.40

dollars leveraged per $1

For every $1 deployed, we have leveraged $2.40 from other partners and investors

Learn more about the impact of GCC's humanitarian and Indigenous programs:

Creating Hope in Conflict: A Humanitarian Grand Challenge

Read the latest annual report on the Creating Hope in Conflict website.

Indigenous Innovation Initiative

Read the latest annual report on the Indigenous Innovation Initiative website.