The Kalpa Group

Established by Loel Guinness in 2000, the Kalpa Group was the successor to the Loel Guinness Foundation, which aimed to support exceptional individuals with original ideas including mountaineers, explorers, engineers, astronauts, doctors and linguists. Loel Guinness’s interest in innovative research had been stimulated by his grandfather’s support for Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s pioneering underwater exploration through his acquisition of the converted minesweeper Calypso. Utilising technology and marine science, Cousteau achieved world fame through his numerous books and films that popularised the previously hidden underwater world. After inheriting the Calypso, Loel Guinness donated it to the Cousteau Foundation in 2006.

 Projects that synthesise and integrate ancient ideas with contemporary applications are especially encouraged; technology should be a tool for understanding the past and for creating platforms for communicating traditional knowledge. Kalpa therefore takes a special interest in projects that apply scientific technology to the investigation of topics in the humanities and bringing together experts from disparate fields. It is the spirit of the quest that best defines Kalpa Group’s projects, along with the highest standards of professional excellence, the use of the most scientifically advanced technology and an open-ended outcome.

 The Kalpa Group has a deep commitment to supporting the welfare and continuity of communities where these ancient traditions are still practised. It is Kalpa's intention to serve these traditions on their home ground, providing them with the autonomy to which they are entitled.