International development companies in the US focus on improving social and economic conditions globally. They often work on projects related to public health, education, governance, and sustainable growth, offering services like research, training, and implementation. The industry is evolving as technology plays a larger role in shaping development strategies, and there is growing emphasis on local partnerships and community engagement. Innovative solutions such as data analytics, monitoring, and on-the-ground interventions are on the rise. As challenges are projected to increase globally, these companies are shifting toward more adaptive and collaborative models to address multifaceted dilemmas.


The firms represented in this list vary in size, with workforce numbers ranging from small teams of around 11 to over 10,000 employees. Most are headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area or Maryland, with founding years spanning from the late 1970s to more recent. Their specializations range from project management, governance, monitoring, evaluation, to technical assistance. Companies like DAI and Chemonics stand as significant players, reflecting the ongoing growth and strategic focus of the international development field on tailored solutions and community impact.


Continue reading to discover the top international development companies in the US.


Top 17 International Development Companies Companies in the US


1. Dai

  • Website: dai.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 14%, Honduras 7%, Colombia 6%, Other 73%
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: dai

DAI Global, LLC, based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a private consulting firm specializing in international development. Founded in 1970, DAI has built a reputation for providing development services, project management, and technical assistance to a wide range of clients, including national and local governments, bilateral and multilateral donors, private corporations, and philanthropic organizations. The firm addresses pressing social and economic challenges, focusing on areas such as governance, economic growth, and community resilience. With a workforce of over 5,200 employees, DAI operates in more than 150 countries, tackling issues from climate change to health systems strengthening. Their projects often involve collaboration with local stakeholders, ensuring that solutions are tailored to the specific needs of the communities they serve. DAI's commitment to sustainability and social impact is evident in their recent initiatives, such as building monitoring networks in the Amazon and supporting energy transitions. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model based on their consulting services.


2. Chemonics International

  • Website: chemonics.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 23%, Colombia 7%, Ukraine 7%, Other 62%
  • Founded year: 1975
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: chemonics-international

Chemonics International, Inc. is a Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm that specializes in international development. Established in 1975, the company has grown to employ over 5,500 professionals worldwide. Chemonics provides a wide array of services, including capacity building, supply chain management, and program design, primarily for government agencies and international organizations. The firm addresses pressing global issues across various sectors, such as health, education, and economic development. With a presence in countries like Colombia, Ukraine, Nigeria, and Iraq, Chemonics leverages local knowledge and partnerships to implement effective solutions. Their projects range from improving educational outcomes in Bangladesh to enhancing water and sanitation services in Ethiopia, showcasing their commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.


3. International Business & Technical Consultants, Inc. (IBTCI)

  • Website: ibtci.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 46%, Kenya 13%, Ghana 7%, Other 34%
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: ibtci

International Business & Technical Consultants, Inc. (IBTCI) is a consulting firm based in Vienna, Virginia, specializing in international development. Established in 1987, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality services in areas such as monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL), institutional support, financial management, and capacity building. IBTCI has successfully executed over 300 projects in more than 120 countries, working with a variety of clients including government agencies, private sector entities, and international donor organizations. Their projects span multiple sectors, including agriculture, global health, education, and crisis management. IBTCI emphasizes the importance of knowledge transfer and sustainable development, aiming to leave lasting impacts in the communities they serve. With a workforce that includes professionals from various countries, IBTCI is well-positioned to address the unique challenges faced by emerging markets and developing nations.


4. Dexis Consulting Group

  • Website: dexisonline.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 51%, Guatemala 9%, Ethiopia 7%, Other 33%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: dexis-consulting-group

Dexis Consulting Group, based in Arlington, Virginia, is a consulting firm that specializes in international development. Established in 2001, the company has grown to employ between 501 and 1000 professionals, with a significant portion of its workforce located in various countries, including Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Moldova. Dexis focuses on providing services that address critical issues such as stabilization, anti-corruption, and institutional strengthening, primarily for U.S. government agencies. Their portfolio includes a range of projects aimed at enhancing governance, promoting economic growth, and improving rule of law. Notable projects include the USAID/El Salvador Justice Project and the INL Moldova Prosecutor Vetting initiative. Dexis is committed to creating actionable solutions that foster social outcomes and has developed a reputation for its expertise in monitoring, evaluation, and learning, which supports effective project implementation and adaptation in complex environments.


5. Management Systems International

  • Website: msiworldwide.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, Colombia 8%, Jordan 5%, Other 54%
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: management-systems-international

Management Systems International (MSI) is a consulting firm based in Arlington, Virginia, established in 1981. With a workforce of nearly 1,000 employees, MSI specializes in international development consulting, providing services in strategy, evaluation, governance, and training. The firm has a strong track record of working with governments and non-governmental organizations to tackle pressing issues in democracy, education, and peacebuilding. MSI operates globally, with a notable presence in regions such as Colombia, Jordan, Iraq, and Mozambique. Their projects often focus on enhancing development outcomes through expert consulting and capacity building, reflecting their commitment to improving the lives of communities in need. MSI's approach integrates strategic planning and performance monitoring, ensuring that their interventions are effective and sustainable. They have also contributed to the scaling of development outcomes, serving as a secretariat for the Global Community of Practice on Scaling Development Outcomes, which highlights their thought leadership in the sector.


6. DT Global

  • Website: dt-global.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Papua New Guinea 17%, Indonesia 14%, Australia 10%, Other 59%
  • Latest funding: Other (Debt), $18.0M, February 2024
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: dt-global

DT Global is a development consulting company based in Arlington, Virginia, that specializes in delivering innovative solutions aimed at fostering sustainable change. Founded in 2019, the firm has roots in legacy companies with over 60 years of experience in international development. With a workforce of approximately 2,500 professionals, DT Global operates in over 90 countries, collaborating with governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations. Their projects span critical areas such as conflict prevention, economic growth, governance, and human development. The company is committed to positively impacting communities and enhancing resilience through effective programming. Recently, DT Global secured $18 million in funding, which underscores their active role in the industry and their capacity to implement impactful initiatives.


7. ME&A, Inc.

  • Website: meandahq.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, Rwanda 22%, El Salvador 5%, Other 10%
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: me%26a

ME&A, Inc., based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a consulting firm that has been active in the international development sector since 1985. The company specializes in providing innovative solutions aimed at fostering economic development and social progress. Their services cover a range of practice areas, including monitoring, evaluation, and learning, local economic development, and environmental management. ME&A has a significant global footprint, having worked in over 130 countries, which showcases their capability to address complex development challenges. They have partnered with various clients, including government agencies and international organizations, to enhance program effectiveness and drive measurable results. ME&A is also recognized for its commitment to quality, holding ISO 9001 certification and being designated as a Women-Owned Small Business by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Their focus on local systems and community engagement further underscores their relevance in the international development sector.


8. International Development Group LLC (IDG)


International Development Group LLC (IDG), based in Arlington, Virginia, is a private consulting firm founded in 1988. With a workforce of approximately 169 employees, IDG specializes in international development consulting. The firm provides a range of services aimed at improving public financial management, fostering private sector growth, and facilitating international trade. IDG's clientele includes governments and organizations that seek to tackle economic challenges and implement effective development strategies across various regions. The company has a notable presence in countries such as Bangladesh, India, and several nations in the Caribbean, reflecting its global outreach. IDG has been involved in significant projects, including initiatives to enhance business permit processes in Suriname and promote gender equity in India. Their work often involves collaboration with entities like USAID, showcasing their role in larger development frameworks.


9. EnCompass LLC

  • Website: encompassworld.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Silver Spring, Maryland, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Senegal 6%, El Salvador 6%, Other 21%
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: encompass_world

EnCompass LLC, based in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a women-owned consulting firm founded in 1999. The company specializes in innovative solutions for leadership development, capacity strengthening, technical assistance, and monitoring and evaluation. With a workforce of approximately 216 employees, EnCompass operates in over 70 countries, providing services to a wide range of clients, including government agencies, multilateral organizations, and nonprofit entities. Their expertise spans various sectors such as education, global health, gender and inclusive development, human rights, and food security. EnCompass is also known for its EnCompass Learning Center, which offers high-quality online learning programs aimed at enhancing organizational effectiveness and promoting social change. The firm emphasizes a collaborative approach, integrating evidence-based methods and participant-centered engagement in their projects.


10. IOS Partners

  • Website: iospartners.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Coral Gables, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 24%, France 24%, Costa Rica 10%, Other 43%
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: ios-partners-inc.

IOS Partners, Inc. is a consulting firm based in Coral Gables, Florida, established in 1999. The firm specializes in international economic development and financial advisory services, offering a wide range of consultancy across sectors like tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure. Their mission focuses on eradicating poverty and fostering strong communities through inclusive economic empowerment and good governance. With a team of 82 employees, IOS Partners has successfully completed over 350 assignments in more than 125 countries, working closely with multi and bilateral donor agencies, government institutions, and the private sector. Their projects aim to promote sustainable development practices and enhance economic growth worldwide.


11. Development Transformations


Development Transformations, based in Washington, D.C., is an international development company established in 2008. The firm collaborates with governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations to tackle complex challenges in areas such as conflict prevention, economic growth, and human development. Their operational model prioritizes locally led initiatives, ensuring that solutions are tailored to the specific needs of communities. With a workforce of around 24 employees, Development Transformations is part of a broader network that aims to positively impact 500 million lives by 2045. Their projects span various sectors, including governance, environmental sustainability, and social equity, reflecting a comprehensive approach to development. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining operational model.


12. DevTech Systems, Inc.

  • Website: devtechsys.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 71%, Nigeria 8%, Nicaragua 5%, Other 16%
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: devtech-systems-inc

DevTech Systems, Inc. is an international consulting firm based in Arlington, Virginia, dedicated to development since its inception in 1984. The company specializes in providing advisory services and technical assistance in key areas such as data solutions, public financial management, monitoring and evaluation, and education. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, DevTech has built a robust portfolio, executing projects in over 110 countries. Their clients include government agencies and private-sector organizations, reflecting their ability to navigate complex policy environments. Notable projects include collaborations with USAID, where they have delivered data services and fiscal accountability initiatives. DevTech's commitment to data-driven solutions positions them as a valuable player in the international development sector, addressing pressing challenges and fostering sustainable growth.


13. The Mitchell Group Inc.

  • Website: the-mitchellgroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Liberia 42%, United States (USA) 24%, Democratic Republic of the Congo 18%, Other 16%
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: the-mitchell-group-inc-_2

The Mitchell Group Inc. is a private consulting firm based in the United States, founded in 1986. With a workforce of approximately 125 employees, the company specializes in international development consulting. They provide a range of services including management solutions, monitoring and evaluation, and financial management, primarily targeting U.S. Government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private firms. The firm is dedicated to improving the efficiency of resource use in development projects, which is crucial for achieving sustainable outcomes. The Mitchell Group has a strong operational footprint, with a significant portion of its workforce based in Liberia and other countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia. They have successfully executed over 161 projects in 84 countries, showcasing their extensive experience and commitment to international development. Their portfolio includes contracts valued at over $85 million, reflecting their capability to handle substantial projects and partnerships.


14. IC Net Limited

  • Website: icnetlimited.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Japan 54%, Bangladesh 12%, Philippines 9%, Other 25%
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: ic-net-limited

IC Net Limited, founded in 1993, is a private international development consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. With a workforce of approximately 125 employees, the company operates in various sectors, including infrastructure, governance, environment, and education. IC Net is dedicated to improving social conditions in developing countries through sustainable solutions and capacity-building initiatives. Their projects range from enhancing access to clean water and sanitation to promoting education and vocational training for women. The firm has a significant presence in countries like Japan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, and it has collaborated with notable organizations such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). IC Net's commitment to ethical practices and social justice underpins their mission to create lasting change in the communities they serve.


15. Sayara International


Sayara International is a global development firm based in Washington, D.C., founded in 2003. The company specializes in research, social and behavior change communications, and governance strategies, particularly in areas affected by conflict and instability. Sayara operates from field offices in key locations such as Khartoum, Kyiv, Medellín, and Nairobi, allowing them to engage directly with local communities and stakeholders. They have successfully completed over 300 projects across 29 countries, focusing on enhancing program effectiveness for international donors, civil society organizations, and government institutions. Their services include monitoring and evaluation, migration and displacement strategies, and initiatives aimed at countering violent extremism and disinformation. Sayara's commitment to ethical development practices and their emphasis on local solutions further solidify their role in the international development sector.


16. International Advisory, Products and Systems (i-APS)


International Advisory, Products and Systems (i-APS) is a woman-owned consulting firm based in Alexandria, Virginia, established in 2012. The company specializes in monitoring, evaluation, and institutional strengthening services, primarily serving clients in the humanitarian and development sectors. With a workforce of approximately 122 employees, i-APS operates in various challenging environments, including conflict zones and areas affected by disasters. Their services include Third-Party Monitoring (TPM), Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), and institutional strengthening, which are essential for improving program effectiveness and accountability. i-APS has worked in over 25 countries, collaborating with numerous international organizations, including USAID and various UN agencies. Their approach combines local knowledge with global technical expertise, allowing them to deliver actionable insights and support sustainable development initiatives. They have also developed innovative technology products to enhance their service delivery, further solidifying their role in the international development sector.


17. Q2impact

  • Website: q2impact.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 29%, Egypt 23%, Uganda 16%, Other 32%
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: the-qed-group-llc

Q2impact, formerly known as QED Group, is a consulting firm based in Arlington, Virginia, established in 1998. With a workforce of approximately 128 employees, the firm specializes in international development, providing services in monitoring, evaluation, learning, and data analytics. Their mission is to enhance the effectiveness of development efforts worldwide by leveraging technology and innovative approaches. Q2impact has conducted over 2,250 evaluations in nearly 100 countries, collaborating closely with clients to address complex global challenges. Their portfolio includes projects that promote gender equity, support youth development in Uganda, and enhance the capacity of USAID staff. The firm is dedicated to driving efficiencies and achieving impactful results through data-driven insights and adaptive management strategies.



International Development Companies Insights: Key Companies in the US


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
DaiBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)5001-100001970Private
Chemonics InternationalWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001975Private
International Business & Technical Consultants, Inc. (IBTCI)Vienna, Virginia, United States (USA)201-5001987Private
Dexis Consulting GroupArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)501-10002001Private
Management Systems InternationalArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)501-10001981Private
DT GlobalArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)1001-50002019Private
ME&A, Inc.Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)11-501985Private
International Development Group LLC (IDG)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001988Private
EnCompass LLCSilver Spring, Maryland, United States (USA)201-5001999Private
IOS PartnersCoral Gables, Florida, United States (USA)51-2001999Private
Development TransformationsWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)11-502008Private
DevTech Systems, Inc.Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501984Private
The Mitchell Group Inc.United States (USA)51-2001986Private
IC Net LimitedWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)51-2001993Private
Sayara InternationalWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)201-5002003Private
International Advisory, Products and Systems (i-APS)Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)201-5002012Private
Q2impactArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001998Private


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