ISDC recently published a new Perspective in Nature Sustainable Agriculture. In this Perspective, ISDC offers insights into the evolution of CGIAR’s research and innovation portfolio from 2019 to 2023, underpinning the transformative journey towards One CGIAR. With this contribution, ISDC aims to strengthen the social and environmental sustainability components of allied, future Research for Development (R4D) portfolios. The Perspective explored three interlinked operational frameworks—Quality of Research for Development (QoR4D), Comparative Advantage (CA) Analysis, and Inclusive Innovation—and presented practical tools and lessons for enhancing the quality and impact of R4D initiatives.

This work is based on insights gained by the ISDC during the review of proposals for the current One CGIAR research portfolio