IDEA is a 5-step program by UNIDO to promote private sector development, innovation, and job creation in least developed countries (LDCs). It aims to formalize informal economic activities and help informal sector workers, students, and graduates start businesses or get jobs. The 5 steps include: 1) assessing value chains, 2) selecting and training beneficiaries, 3) providing soft incubation support, 4) facilitating clustering and networking, and 5) conducting maturity assessments. The goal is to link beneficiaries to growing markets and help transition them to sustainable participation in the formal private sector economy.