Sustainable Livelihood Opportunities Supported (PI1207)

This metric measures the number of individuals or households whose livelihood activities have been directly supported by the organization's programs, regardless of whether they were formally employed in a job or were self-employed. A livelihood can encompass a broad range of activities, such as agricultural production, small business operations, informal sector work, and community-based initiatives. The focus is on the sustainability and diversification of income streams over time, rather than simply the provision of a specific job.

Organizations should track individuals or households who have either:

• Received support in the form of grants, loans, or other financial products to improve their livelihoods;
• Benefited from training or capacity building to enhance their skills for better income generation;
• Gained access to markets or networks that enable them to increase their income;
• Developed new, sustainable livelihood activities through community-based interventions; or
• Improved their assets or resources (e.g., land, tools, equipment, or other productive assets).

This metric is especially relevant to organizations focused on rural, vulnerable, or informal communities, as it captures a broader perspective of economic empowerment. Unlike the "Job Placements" metric (PI9465), which focuses on the number of formal employment placements, this metric recognizes a diverse range of activities that can support livelihoods.

Organizations should review local and international standards to determine sustainability of livelihoods, similar to widely used frameworks like FAO’s Sustainable Livelihoods Approach.

Example activities:

• A smallholder farmer receiving agricultural inputs (e.g., seeds, tools) to increase production and income;
• An artisan gaining access to a new market for handmade goods, resulting in increased sales;
• Fishermen supported by a community-based organization helping individuals improve their fishing techniques and expand market access;or
• A micro-entrepreneur receiving financial literacy training and a small loan to grow their business. Note: Unlike the Job Placements metric, which focuses on formal employment, this metric includes those involved in non-formal, self-employment, and community-based livelihoods. Organizations should ensure that they are measuring the impact on individuals or households who are engaging in economic activities in various sectors, not just formal employment.

This metric complements the "Job Placements" metric by focusing on a different, broader dimension of economic support, particularly for individuals in more informal or non-traditional employment contexts. It could be particularly useful for organizations working in communities where formal job placement may not be as relevant, but where economic empowerment through livelihood development is a key focus.