Development is necessary to advance human livelihood but the nature and speed of development depend on regular innovation at different levels of human endeavour. A majority of the poor in developing countries still live in rural areas, and most of them depend on agriculture and rural activities for employment and livelihood. Understanding by policy makers and programme designers of the characteristics of innovation would enable them identify opportunities and enhance the factors that facilitate innovation by and for the poor. This paper presents key elements of innovation and innovation systems for the poor. 
 
Suresh Chandra Babu
Senior Research Fellow
s.babu@cgiar.org

Kwadwo Asenso-Okyere
Director of Knowledge, Capacity and Innovation Division
International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)
Washington D.C., USA