WHO compendium of innovative health technologies for low – resource settings 2016-2017 provides information about novel advancements that offer a new solution to address unmet health needs. It celebrates the work of those who create inexpensive tools that can be used effectively even in challenging care delivery environments. Contained in the compendium are summaries of innovative technologies that range from cleverly designed basic supplies to sophisticated technologies that have been reimagined for the developing world. It includes products available in the market as well as prototypes that can be further developed that could become disruptive innovations. All the entries show promise in furthering the shared goal of universal access to essential health technologies. It should be duly noted that all submissions to the ‘Call for innovative health technologies for low-resource settings’ underwent an evaluation process; technologies were assessed by an expert panel based on the material and evidence provided by the applicant as well as publicly available information. For any selected technology, the inclusion in the compendium does not constitute a warranty for fitness of the technology for a particular purpose. All innovative solutions in the compendium are presented in one page summarizing the health problem addressed, the proposed solution and product specifications, based on data, information, and images provided by the developers of the technologies concerned.