“More important than speed, economic growth that is inclusive is crucial for a healthy and stable society.” In Central Asia, Aga Khan Foundation USA CEO Aleem Walji found an unexpected hotspot for inclusive economic growth.

Across Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic, small and medium-sized businesses are sprouting up, filling gaps in services and raising standards of living, even in some of the region’s most remote areas. The Aga Khan Foundation and its sister agencies across the Aga Khan Development Network work to enable the economic environment needed for these enterprises to thrive—from improving access to finance for existing small business owners to offering small grants to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Learn more about our work in economic inclusion or read Aleem’s full post on Devex.