D3.10 Innovation Case Study 4: FONRID Innovation projects

Knowledge production in research and innovation has been shown to be gendered. In response, research funding organisations (RFOs) have launched various policies to overcome/address such biases. Within INSPIRE T3.6, we analysed policies aiming to promote inclusive innovation, with a focus on gender and intersectionality (=IGI) specifically targeting the Business Enterprise Sector (BES). For each of these policies that were implemented in different cultural and geographical contexts, separate case study reports are available: here you can find the case studies from Vinnova (Sweden), EC and FONRID (Burkina Faso).

This report analyses the implementation of FONRID Innovation Projects by the Fonds National de la Recherche et de l’Innovation pour le Développement (FONRID). It is a funding instrument that was established by FONRID with the aim to stimulate research and innovation that address local socioeconomic challenges. Applied research and innovations that are practical and directly improve the living conditions of the population are being emphasized. Gender-sensitive measures, like ensuring the inclusion of at least 30% female participation in project teams, promote inclusiveness and enhance the empowerment of women in the private sector. Innovation projects are funded yearly for the period of 30-36 months.