The University of Ibadan Research Foundation (UI-RF) was created to strengthen the leadership roles of research leaders at the University of Ibadan in leading-edge research, and their contributions to the translations of research to innovations, evidence and strategies for effective policy options on sustainable social and economic development of Nigeria. The UI-Research Foundation operates on the ethos of bringing together partnerships to support and facilitate these laudable objectives and efforts to drive the narratives on the adoption of "Knowledge Economy" that will propel the sustainable development of Nigeria. This pragmatic approach and framework of partnerships with the University of Ibadan, national and international partners have generated unique platforms and success in initiatives, including the support for: Collaborative Research Grants and Awards for research leaders at University of Ibadan. Award of Research Career Development Grants and in efforts to nurture talented Early Career Researchers. Creation of a 'Think Tank' for translating research results to innovations, strategies, evidence and policy options for Local, State and National governance. Access to novel competencies by Early Career Researchers.