Our Story
From our founding to our future, discover the milestones that define our commitment to inclusive growth.
Our Journey to Inclusive Growth
Inclusive Growth (IG) was born from a simple but powerful realization: talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. In communities across Ethiopia, women, persons with disabilities, and youth continue to face systemic barriers. We saw not a lack of potential — but a lack of inclusive systems. That realization became our calling.
The Foundation
Our journey began with a bold vision: to dismantle structural barriers and build pathways where everyone can participate, contribute, and thrive. Guided by the principle “Nothing About Us, Without Us,” IG was established as a locally grounded organization.
Expansion of Our Reach
While our energy is grounded locally, our vision is continental and global. IG connects grassroots action with national dialogue, regional collaboration, and international partnerships to advance inclusive, center-led solutions.
A New Chapter in Development
IG represents a new chapter in development — one where inclusion is not an afterthought, but the foundation. From capacity building and policy advocacy to innovation... IG is shaping a future where development is not delivered to people — but built with them.
How We Operate
From lived experience to lasting systems change
Inclusive Growth combines the 7-I-CHESTE strategic pillars with the I-CREATE S³ execution engine. Our co-leadership approach follows a 60/40 rule, with 60% of board, management and staff positions held by women and persons with disabilities and 40% by allies.
WACBID
Women and Community-Based Inclusive Development
DICD
Disability Inclusive Community Development
CBR-ID
Rights-based community development focused on removing systemic barriers
Supply-Demand-Linkage
Connecting skills and technology with market demand and access to finance