All Children Reading: A Grand Challenge for Development final report

All Children Reading: A Grand Challenge for Development (ACR GCD) was a 12-year, $25 million partnership between USAID, World Vision, and the Australian Government to advance EdTech innovation and research that improve reading outcomes for marginalized children in low-resource contexts. Through three rounds of funding and 14 global competitions, ACR GCD received 1,213 applications and awarded 94 grants — nearly half to innovators from developing countries — spanning NGOs, start-ups, universities, and Disabled Persons’ Organizations. Working across six focus areas, from underserved languages to education in emergencies, the initiative mobilized governments, donors, and the private sector to create scalable, inclusive solutions that expand access to quality literacy materials. By emphasizing local innovation, evidence generation, and cross-sector partnerships, ACR GCD demonstrated how technology and collaboration can transform early grade reading and continues to influence global education efforts toward ensuring every child learns to read.