Who We Are

About ICBWorld

Independent Consultants for a Better World

Comprises 100+ self-employed consultants, many specializing in global development and committed to gender equality and improving the lives of people worldwide. Our associates offer highly responsive services and an efficient and collegial business relationship with our clients while also enabling a better work-life balance in our own daily lives. Due to our comprehensive expertise, competitive fees, and commitment to integrity and excellence, we have a proven track record of success in meeting or exceeding our clients’ expectations. We also provide support to one another in strengthening our own consulting practices. We became a LLC in 2019, enabling a more defined online presence via
modest membership dues, establishing our website and strengthening virtual connections for members.

Our Mission

ICBW is dedicated to strengthening its members’ capacities to achieve and maintain the high level of expertise required of their consulting practice. Our network operates collaboratively. Together the ICBW management team and members lead and participate in our ongoing program of services, which include resource-sharing, “just-in-time” advisory services, professional development events, and valuable networking opportunities.

Our Values

Collaboration
Openness
Trust
Respect for people, communities, and cultures
Care for our world
Commitment to gender equality and diversity in all workplaces
Continual learning and striving for excellence
Embracing change, creativity and innovation
Empowering consultants to maintain wellbeing and life-balance

Our Values

Collaboration
Openness
Trust
Respect for people, communities, and cultures
Care for our world
Commitment to gender equality and diversity in all workplaces
Continual learning and striving for excellence
Embracing change, creativity and innovation
Empowering consultants to maintain wellbeing and life-balance

Our History

Independent Consultants for a Better World (ICBW) began in 2009, with a backporch Brazilian Feijoada lunch, in Arlington, Virginia. The hostess, Marjorie Macieira invited 12 colleagues, who were also consultants, to share about their work and the challenges they faced as independents. Together we created a safe space in which to network and share about the practical details of establishing and running a consulting practice. All concurred how important it was to have others with whom to confide in regarding the inevitable “consulting conundrums” — negotiating contracts, marketing one’s skills and services, managing travel and safety concerns and more.

Members met in each other’s homes and invited their colleagues. No one had all the answers but together we shared experiences and helped each other figure out how to deal with tough spots. We built a community that broke through the inherent isolation of working independently. Thus, ICBW was established, providing networking, social support, professional development, group retreats, holiday parties and marketing opportunities. ICBW eventually hosted joint sessions with organizations such as DEVEX, Society for International Development and invited speakers from The World Bank, Interaction, and experts from local universities and agencies that could provide support to small businesses.