The De Novo Group is a unique non-profit that bridges the gap between the world-class research developed at universities and the holistic solutions required for real impact. The focus is on technologies that can improve the quality of life for rural communities, especially in developing regions.

We are a California nonprofit public benefit corporation that qualifies for tax-exempt status pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. We work in tight collaboration with researchers from UC-Berkeley, Stanford, and other leading research institutes and universities.

The roots of De Novo Group are based upon and grounded in the U.S. Federal Government’s National Science Foundation (NSF)-sponsored project called Technology and Infrastructure for Emerging Regions (TIER) at UC Berkeley led by Professor Eric Brewer, of UC-Berkely’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department. Although this program did produce a lot of promising research, we came to the realization that it was not enough. The mission of the University is research, not development. Thus, TIER and other University-sponsored efforts alone are not the best vehicle to bring innovations to scale and long term impact. Conversely, almost all developmental non-governmental organizations (“NGO”s) have limited technical capabilities and are thus constrained to off-the-shelf technology solutions. Research innovations are, therefore, constrained to readily-available technology solutions. Consequently, NGOs are rarely able to utilize research innovations without further technology development, testing, documentation, and training. Along with other innovators at UC Berkeley, we sought to bridge this gap by creating a unique non-profit and tapping into our established resources and reputation.

From novel technical solutions and experienced fieldwork, to rigorous project management and a history of successful NGO partnerships, the De Novo Group is driving deep impact in alleviating poverty and improving the quality of life in developing regions.

All work produced by the De Novo Group is available to anyone, anywhere, 100% royalty free.