The Elsevier Foundation turns 20: Catalyzing impact, inspiring change

As we embark on our 20^th year, the grand challenges that our research and health communities are working to address, such as climate change, healthcare disparities, food and energy security, and responsible development of new technologies, underscore the importance of our mission at the Elsevier Foundation. We want to serve as a catalyst for inclusive research and health partnerships that accelerate early-stage interventions and spotlight impact makers, whether individuals or organizations. Ultimately, our ambition is to contribute to positive system change and the UN SDGs. 

As part of this commitment, we are resolute in supporting a range of voices and perspectives. For instance, more than 90% of our partnerships now have a gender dimension embedded. This is more important than ever, especially as disparities in access to resources and healthcare continue to affect marginalized communities disproportionately in the long wake of Covid-19. By partnering with the Gender Summits, the Falling Walls Female Science Talent program and the OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Awards for early-career women scientists in the developing world, we support dialogue, training and recognition which lead to career advancement and more impactful research and healthcare.  

At the same time, we are witnessing the emergence of AI as a transformative force with the potential to either bridge or widen the opportunity gap for many groups. Elsevier’s AI capabilities are enabling researchers and clinicians to find the critical, trusted insights they need and make the right connections to accelerate research, innovation and healthcare. In 2025, the Elsevier Foundation is actively seeking ways to leverage these AI advancements for our partners as they create real-world solutions for research and health challenges. 

The urgency of addressing climate change has also never been greater. As we confront environmental challenges that threaten our ecosystems, the role of research becomes increasingly vital for informing policy and health interventions. Over 60% of our partnerships now have a climate dimension including the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge, which identifies sustainable chemistry solutions for low-income countries. On the health side, our new Climate Care Champions with Swasti equips front line health workers in India with knowledge and skills to manage the health impacts of extreme weather events for vulnerable populations. 
 
We believe that global collaboration amongst the research and healthcare communities is vital for progress. This is particularly critical at a time when the communities we serve are impacted by geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. This is why we support initiatives that bring together researchers, healthcare professionals, like-minded organizations and policymakers across borders. In 2024, we worked closely with the World Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute for Climate and Environment to develop the Climate Women training program. Our collaboration ensured that 15 women scientists from across the global South were provided with the resources, training, visibility and networking opportunities to advance their research and contribute to climate action diplomacy across borders.  

As we navigate the complexities of our current environment, the Elsevier Foundation remains steadfast in our support of our partners and our vision to serve as a catalyst for inclusive research and health. The journey ahead is challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities. We invite you to join us in this endeavor as we catalyze initiatives and support impact makers that shape human progress to go further, happen faster and benefit all.