Our Approach to International Solidarity Projects

Each year, I2Impact selects a variety of international solidarity projects with the goal to engrain, grow or start social entrepreneurship — in close collaboration with local partners and communities.

Project Criteria

I2Impact's Social Entrepreneurship Staircase

I2Impact selects every year a variety of international solidarity projects that have the goal to engrain, grow or start social entrepreneurship. The diagram below illustrates how projects are positioned along this staircase.

I2Impact social entrepreneurship staircase

Project Team

Every I2Impact project is executed by a multidisciplinary team of 3 to 6 students, guided by a dedicated project coach. Together, they work closely with the project partner to co-develop and implement solutions that are grounded in local realities.

Students support a project that is initiated and co-developed with the local population. The role of the student team is to contribute their knowledge, energy and fresh perspective — while ensuring that ownership, decision-making and long-term continuity remain firmly with the local community and partner organisation.

Each team is supported by a project coach who provides guidance, ensures quality and helps the team navigate challenges throughout both the preparation and implementation phases.

Project team
Project finance

Project Finance

Each project partner is responsible for securing the necessary funding for their own project. I2Impact supports the process but does not manage or allocate project funds.

Participation in an I2Impact project is voluntary — students are not paid. Students bear the following costs themselves:

  • Flight ticket to and from the project location
  • Food and drinks during the stay
  • Any spare-time activities undertaken while abroad

The project partner is responsible for:

  • Accommodation for the duration of the stay (6–8 weeks)
  • All materials used in the project
  • Transport to and from the project site

Characteristics of an I2Impact Project

Multidisciplinary Teams

Teams of 3–6 students from different academic backgrounds work together, guided by a project coach, bringing complementary perspectives to complex real-world challenges.

Local Partnership

Projects are co-developed with local partners and communities. Solutions are grounded in local knowledge, needs and realities — ensuring relevance and long-term sustainability.

Measurable Social Impact

Every project aims at tangible outcomes for the partner organisation and the wider community. Impact is monitored and evaluated throughout the process.

Become a Partner

We collaborate with organisations, institutions and stakeholders who share our commitment to sustainable social impact. If you are interested in supporting student-led initiatives, we welcome the opportunity to connect.

Word Partner