Adrian Smith and colleagues explore grassroots innovations, their potential for development and challenges facing practitioners.

SciDev.Net reporters across the developing world describe exciting initiatives aimed at supporting innovation in local communities and remote areas.

Interest is growing in tools and innovations that can ease the workload imposed on women farm workers, report M Sreelata and Naomi Antony.

The state of Lagos has set up an advisory council to guide it towards becoming an innovation hub for West Africa. Emeka Johnkingsley reports.

Can a new network of African energy researchers lead the way on solar power for the continent? Christine Ottery finds out.

Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan of Jordan talks to SciDev.Net about hopes for science in the Middle East, science diplomacy and the role of women scientists.

A move to give African scientists recycled lab equipment has created an opportunity for networking and collaboration, says Vijaysree Venkatraman.

Can recent policies and new programmes tackle Mexico's serious shortage of homegrown science and technology? Cecilia Rosen finds out.

Harvard globalisation professor Calestous Juma talks to SciDev.Net about how to get Africa's wealth of innovation making an impact.

Can Brazil use its booming economy and abundant natural resources to become a life sciences juggernaut, asks Gene Russo.

The executive director of the Gates Foundation tells SciDev.Net why he is throwing conventional research proposals into the bin.

A Danish company is proving that there is profit to be made in making products for the poor, including a 'straw' that makes water drinkable.

Emerging economies have shown how knowledge can be harnessed to fuel long-term development, writes Calestous Juma.

The rapid growth of technology parks in the Arab world has so far created more expectations than outcomes, reports Waleed Al-Shobakky.

Are South Africa's science policy choices hindering its drive to commercialise research and speed development? Sonja van Renssen reports.