MIT International Development Initiative

The MIT International Development Initiative (IDI) mentors MIT students to cultivate invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship in service of communities lacking access to products and services that meet basic human needs. Since 2003, more than 390 students have participated in IDI programs, and its projects have benefited thousands of people in developing regions.

In 2007, The Lemelson Foundation approved a five-year grant to IDI to sustain its current programs and to undertake new efforts. Existing programs include:

• D-Lab – A series of classes and field trips that educates students about technical, social and cultural aspects of development work in selected countries, providing the opportunity for the design and dissemination of appropriate technologies.
• IDEAS Competition – Recognizes outstanding student teams, and provides grants and mentoring support for teams of students working on innovative solutions to address community needs.
• Public Service Fellowships – Stipends enable students to work full-time on capacity-building projects around the world.
• International Development Grants – Funding for individuals and teams allows them to turn their ideas and prototypes into products that serve developing region communities.

While it strengthens its current programs, IDI will also create partnerships with Lemelson Foundation RAMPs (Recognition and Mentoring Programs) in India, Indonesia or Peru, and will explore synergies with projects within the Foundation’s Technology Dissemination Portfolio.