Issues

The problems associated with poverty are intertwined. So are the solutions.

A Surprisingly Uncommon Approach

IDEX’s work is about ending poverty – for good. The way we work is surprisingly uncommon. We fund sustainable solutions to poverty conceived in villages and communities around the world. Not in New York, Washington, Geneva, or even San Francisco where IDEX’s office is located.

The Basic Elements:

Ownership

Local communities need to own the process of economic or social change. Many well-meaning poverty alleviation projects have short-lived results when the ideas and the motivation do not come from the communities themselves.

Local problem solving, leadership, and innovation

Problem solving that reflects the culture, politics, geography, and economy have lasting results. Ideas by locals reflect realities and have the trust of their community members.

Integrated approach

IDEX’s work is about ending poverty – for good.

IDEX grantees work on several issues side by side. Why? The problems associated with poverty are intricate. So are the solutions. On a visit to the US, Shashi Tyagi, one of the founders of GRAVIS, was asked why she worked on several issues at once, she responded, “If people do not have potable water, then a health care center can help only so much. If women do not have the right to open a bank account, how can they save or increase their ability to earn? If workers do not have basic rights to shoes, shade and masks, how can they protect their health?”