As the largest insect-science society in the world, the Entomological Society of America (ESA) is leading a global initiative to engage and empower other entities worldwide to take on grand challenges we face in the coming decades. This is a long-term, multi-faceted strategy that will require a committed effort from the global scientific and entomological community.

Though the suite of problems that are faced by the world are many, ESA has chosen to address three topics initially. They are:

1. Vector-borne diseases and their impact on human health
2. Invasive insect species – global trade, biodiversity, and climate change
3. Sustainable agriculture – global hunger, food security, and natural resources preservation

Through a series of formal programs, informal collaborations, and public outreach, ESA hopes to develop a network of stakeholders who are engaged in the process and seek to develop solutions to some of these long-standing issues. We encourage all who are interested to join the coalition and provide their input.

Some recent events held in support of the Grand Challenges Agenda include:

• The International Entomology Leadership Summit
• The Aedes aegypti Challenge Summit