The China Development Research Foundation (CDRF) is a public foundation initiated by the Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC). Its mission is to advance good governance and public policy to promote economic development and social progress.

The Foundation has approached its mandate in a number of ways, including support for evidence-based policy research, leadership training, high-level forums and symposiums to promote economic cooperation and development, and the promotion of responsible public policy.

Registered in 1997, the Foundation is a relatively young institution but is already recognized on the world stage as a think-tank on public policy issues. Under leadership of the DRC, the Foundation works in partnership with leading universities, institutions, private enterprises, and government agencies. It also works with international partners in undertaking distinguished programs, such as the China Development Forum and executive training programs.

Financial support for the Foundation is provided by donations from Chinese and international patrons. Funding is used to support policy research, publications, leadership training, development forums, and academic exchanges.

As China continues to move steadily ahead with policy reforms and investments for more inclusive development, the demands for research, transparent and accountable processes, and citizenship engagement are expanding. The Foundation is striving to meet these challenges and to coordinate policy research work which supports the work of government, civil society and enterprises in furthering equitable development in China.