Every day, coaches around the world witness the transformative power of coaching. Through the Ignite Initiative, that same power extends beyond individuals to strengthen organizations, empower communities, and accelerate social impact.
Since 2017, the ICF Foundation has partnered with ICF chapters, credentialed coaches, and social change organizations to create coaching-led initiatives that advance meaningful progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Today, we invite you to be part of that movement as applications for the 2026 Ignite Initiative officially open.
Coaching that Creates Change
The Ignite Initiative is more than a coaching program. It is a global movement that harnesses the power of coaching to support organizations advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
From education and gender equality to climate action and community development, Ignite projects empower social change leaders to expand their impact while strengthening the organizations and communities they serve. Each project brings together ICF-credentialed coaches, local leaders, and mission-driven organizations to create measurable, meaningful results.
Recent 2025 Ignite cohorts have demonstrated the reach and potential of coaching for social impact:
- 77 projects advancing social impact initiatives.
- 1,403 coaching clients served.
- 4,670 coaching hours delivered.
- 48 ICF chapters engaged worldwide.
These numbers represent more than participation. They reflect stronger leaders, more resilient organizations, and communities better equipped to address today’s most pressing challenges.
Applications are Now Open
Applications for the 2026 Ignite Initiative are officially open.
The ICF Foundation is seeking applications from:
- ICF chapters.
- ICF-credentialed coaches and members.
- Social change organizations aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This year’s application cycle runs from July 15 through September 17, 2026. Selected projects will participate in a six-month Ignite cohort beginning in October 2026.
The Foundation is particularly interested in projects that align with:
- Gender Equality (SDG 5)
- Climate Action (SDG 13)
- Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16)
while welcoming applications that support any of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Your Opportunity to Lead Change
Whether you are an ICF chapter looking to launch a community impact project, a credentialed coach ready to give back through coaching, or a social change organization seeking leadership support, Ignite offers a proven pathway to create meaningful change.
Together, we can strengthen leaders, empower organizations, and accelerate progress toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
The challenge is great but so is the collective power of coaching.
Applications are now open, and we invite you to join a global community of changemakers using coaching to transform lives, organizations, and communities around the world.
