The Center for Applied Research and Learning combines academic approaches with practitioner perspectives, emphasizing applied research, evaluation, and organi­zational learning to strengthen democracy and gover­nance assistance. The Center builds on IFES’ history of more than 28 years of innovation, thought lead­ership and technical election assistance in over 145 countries. Through research, writing, and continued collaboration with electoral learning initiatives such as the ACE Electoral Knowledge Network and Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections, the Center also fosters learning opportunities for IFES’ own emerging leaders, building the knowledge of staff in all areas of program activity.