From late 2025 to the end of March 2026, the Inclusive Horizons: Learning and Entrepreneurship for All – Phase II project expanded economic opportunities for low-income women and youth with disabilities in Uzbekistan. Implemented by the SABR National Centre for Socio-Economic Development with support from the UK-funded Effective Governance for Economic Development (EGED) Programme, the initiative addressed one of the key barriers to inclusion: limited access to vocational skills, entrepreneurship opportunities and financial resources.
Many participants faced multiple challenges, including unemployment, caregiving responsibilities, social isolation and lack of confidence. The project responded with an integrated package of vocational training, entrepreneurship education, business planning, legal and psychological counselling, and start-up grants – helping beneficiaries not only develop new skills but also turn them into sustainable sources of income.
Implemented in Andijan Region, Urgench City and Bogot District of Khorezm Region, Phase II enabled 344 participants (319 women and 25 men) to complete vocational training, while 59 entrepreneurs received grants to launch or expand micro-businesses. Participants also benefited from 292 legal and psychological consultations, strengthening both their economic and social resilience.
The project built on the achievements of the first implementation cycle. Across both phases, 832 women and vulnerable youth have strengthened their skills, and 157 participants have launched income-generating activities – creating a growing network of entrepreneurs contributing to more inclusive local economies.
The greatest impact of the project is reflected in the lives of its beneficiaries. Many participants have moved from financial dependence to self-employment, increased household income and renewed confidence.
“Today I have my own home-based business and earn 2–2.5 million UZS per month. I can care for my family while having my own income. It has given me confidence, independence and pride”, – Shoista Sobirova, sewing graduate and grant recipient.
“The project helped me regain confidence in myself. I received a grant, started my own business, and now I look to the future with confidence for the sake of my children”, – Khabiba Atabaeva, computer literacy graduate and entrepreneur.
“Today I work in the job I always dreamed of. The project gave me not only new knowledge but also the confidence to create new opportunities for myself”, – Shakhnoza Kuzibaeva, computer literacy graduate from Andijan Region.
“I now earn my own income through online sales. For me, this is not only economic independence, but the beginning of a new stage in my life”, – Mayramkhon Abdulkhakimova, grant recipient and online entrepreneur.
By investing in people’s skills, confidence and entrepreneurial potential, Inclusive Horizons has demonstrated that inclusive economic development delivers lasting results – not only improving livelihoods for women and youth with disabilities, but also strengthening household resilience, promoting social inclusion and creating new employment opportunities within local communities.
