I4D-Day 2010: Slums: Poverty and Opportunity

In 2010 the I4D network focuses on innovation and entrepreneurship to improve quality of life in slums. To read more about I4D-day 2010, follow this link.

Innovation for Development
The I4D network (Innovation for Development) stimulates reflection and practical cooperation on the role of technology and innovation in the global South. It tries to establish regular contact between the technological innovation community (universities, business) and the development community (NGOs, ministries).

 

Development in the Global South is impossible without modern technology. Healthy drinking water, good sanitary facilities, access to clean forms of energy, communication etc. depend on the use of technology. Through the introduction of modern technology, living conditions can improve, capacities can rise and productivity can grow. Thus technology contributes to development and growth. At the same time technology must be embedded in local circumstances to be effective, even if ‘proven technology’ is used.

Both the introduction of new technologies and the process of embedding are forms of innovation. Another form of technological innovation is (cutting edge) research and development of new technology, leading to new products, in its manifestation as software or hardware. Also this can contribute to growth.