About

A new initiative titled LINC (Inclusive Work and Growth): Economic Development and Inclusion Paths has been launched to support economic empowerment and workplace inclusion in Iraq.

With a total funding of €4.5 million approved by the Joint Committee on September 30, 2024, the program seeks qualified organizations registered under Article 26, Paragraph 3 of Law 125/2014 to implement this vital intervention over a 36-month period.

The LINC initiative is designed to address the pressing challenges of unemployment, inequality, and limited livelihood opportunities in the governorates of Baghdad, Thi Qar, and Qadissiya—regions severely affected by employment crises and internal migration. Rather than simply reducing vulnerabilities, the program aims to strengthen the resilience of local communities by improving their capacity to respond to socio-economic disruptions, particularly through the growth and support of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

One of the central goals is to stimulate local economic development through enhanced professional skills and entrepreneurship, especially among the most vulnerable populations. This includes women, youth, people with disabilities, migrants, and internally displaced persons. The program prioritizes sectors with high labor absorption potential, such as construction, services, and agribusiness, to ensure broad and sustainable employment outcomes.

Stakeholder engagement is a core requirement of the initiative, with regular consultations planned among local authorities, community representatives, and other key players. Moreover, proposals must demonstrate strong contextual relevance and the ability to foster inclusive partnerships throughout all phases of implementation.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MOLSA) of Iraq formally requested this intervention, and the program will be executed in close coordination with national stakeholders. Organizations applying must show proven experience managing similar development programs and strong ties to local counterparts to ensure meaningful, on-the-ground impact.

With a substantial funding commitment and a well-defined strategic framework, the LINC initiative offers a significant opportunity for organizations to contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable economic development in Iraq’s most vulnerable regions.

Eligibility

Applicants must propose initiatives that integrate cross-cutting themes, including gender equality, environmental sustainability, disability inclusion, and climate change mitigation. Projects must also embrace result-based management (RBM) principles and align with Iraq’s National Development Plan. Coordination with local expertise, public institutions such as Chambers of Commerce, and other development actors is essential to ensure harmonized implementation and long-term impact.

Post Date: August 21, 2025