Background
As part of Canada’s foreign affairs and development efforts, IDRC invests in research, shares knowledge, and builds global partnerships for a more sustainable and inclusive world.
When Canada’s government announced new requirements for Crown Corporations to report GHG emissions in their annual reports by adopting the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) standard by 2024, IDRC chose to go beyond and create an Environmental, Social and Governance report as well. After all, creating a sustainable and equitable world was in the organization’s DNA and highlighting the work they were doing just made sense.
But the Director of Finance and Administration knew the report was not just an exercise in repackaging their story – it was an opportunity to look at their entire operation, set priorities, and think about how they could go beyond their mandate. The first ESG report was published in 2023—a full year ahead of schedule, establishing a framework and integrating ESG practices into their operations.
The Challenge
IDRC was committed to advancing sustainability with its new ESG framework, but it faced a challenge: it didn’t have the internal resources to produce its first ESG report. The organization needed a partner who could not only deliver a high-quality, compliant report but also help employees understand the framework and see how it connects to their daily work.
This wasn’t just about meeting reporting requirements. Employees today expect their employers to take real action on environmental and social issues, and IDRC wanted its ESG framework to be more than a reporting exercise. It needed to work on two levels: as a credible public document and as an internal tool to spark engagement and embed ESG practices throughout the organization.
The Solution
To meet this challenge, IDRC turned to Vision2Voice. Having partnered with our team on several transformation initiatives, we had already earned their trust as a partner that delivered value and results. Our deep expertise in communication, change, and the power of storytelling meant we were uniquely positioned to deliver a report that was clear, engaging, and a compelling story of IDRC’s sustainability journey.
Once the report was written, designed and published, we delivered a comprehensive launch strategy to ensure it had a lasting impact. The internal launch helped employees understand the framework and integrate it into their daily work. This included an in-person event that introduced IDRC’s new President and featured a panel discussion on the goals outlined in the report, including addressing climate change by reducing GHG emissions.
Recognizing that ESG is a journey and not a report, we created an internal communications strategy to continue to inform, involve and inspire IDRC employees going forward. It ensured that ESG remained top of mind, relevant, and integral to how IDRC continues to grow and evolve. Together, these efforts ensured the ESG framework was introduced not simply as a compliance requirement, but as an inspiring and integrated part of IDRC’s mission.
The Scope
Research
Collaborated with IDRC and its consultants to gather and synthesize relevant information.
Content Development
Drafted the full ESG report, ensuring alignment with IDRC’s mission and ESG best practices.
Design and Publication
Designed the final, publication-ready ESG report for public release.
Employee Engagement
Conducted employee listening through focus groups and a panel event.
Launch and Event Support
Organized and supported both the internal and external launches of the report, including event planning, facilitation, launch materials and social media.
Strategy
Developed a comprehensive strategy to promote the ESG framework and support lasting corporate change.
Campaigns
Produced ongoing communication campaign materials and activities to sustain momentum.
“Vision2Voice has been an outstanding communications partner for IDRC, consistently delivering strategic expertise and creative solutions that have made a real impact. Their team played a pivotal role in developing our internal communications strategy for major initiatives, including the ESG project and travel program, providing everything from comprehensive strategy documents to engaging travel guides and supporting materials.
Vision2Voice’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence were especially evident in their work on our ESG report, where they coordinated with subject matter experts, managed project updates, and ensured our messaging was clear and compelling. Their graphic design and report development skills helped us present complex information in a way that was both visually appealing and easy to understand.
Throughout our partnership, Vision2Voice has demonstrated professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine dedication to our success. They have been a pleasure to work with, and their contributions have strengthened our communications and supported our organizational goals.”
The Results
Strategic Impact
The inaugural ESG report positioned IDRC as a leader in sustainability while creating momentum for lasting cultural change within the organization. It provided a foundation for embedding ESG principles into both internal operations and wider programming.
Here’s what IDRC gained:
Catalyst for Change: The ESG report became a driver for embedding sustainability practices across the organization.
Employee Engagement: Focus groups, strong event participation, and communication metrics confirmed employees’ growing interest and involvement in ESG initiatives.
Sustained Momentum: Vision2Voice has supported the successful publication of three consecutive ESG reports, building continuity and credibility.
Year-Round Focus: ESG is now reinforced through a steady cadence of communications, shifting from a once-a-year report to a continuous organizational priority.
Multi-Channel Reach: Videos, infographics, interviews, and interactive formats (like trivia) created dynamic ways to foster awareness and engagement.
Empowered Employees: The launch of an ESG Employee Resource Group in 2024 gave staff ownership in shaping direction and raising awareness.
Professional Growth: ESG communication is linked to daily work and leadership opportunities, creating pathways for development and impact.
