START, the global change SysTem for Analysis, Research and Training was created in 1992, in the wake of the 1990 Rio Earth Summit and in recognition of the need for stronger global change science in Africa and Asia. START was created by the International Science Council and was co-sponsored by the International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme, the World Climate Research Programme, the International Human Dimensions Programme on Global Environmental Change, and DIVERSITAS.

START was conceptualized at the 1990 Bellagio “Workshop on Global Change Regional Research Centres: From Concepts to Reality” with the aim of creating a system of regional networks for analysis, research and training that would advance capacities for global change research.

START has been involved from the very beginning in the establishment and support of a system of regional networks of scientists and institutions in Africa and Asia. In 2009, START officially incorporated as START International, Inc. an independent nonprofit corporation.