Athlete interests and brand growth prioritised in new International Paralympic Committee strategic plan

Avoiding complacency and prioritising athletes were citied as key aspects of the Strategic Plan by IPC President, Sir Philip Craven ©Getty Images

A new four year strategic plan has been published by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), aiming to "consolidate the growth of the Paralympic Games, increase global participation in Para-sport and improve the recognition and value of the brand".

In a process that could be compared with the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Agenda 2020 reform measures, the IPC has consulted stakeholders from across the Movement following a strategic review conducted in 2013, as well as taken on board ideas suggested at last October's IPC Membership Gathering in Berlin,

This formed the basic of plans drawn up this year by the IPC Governing Board and Bonn-based management team.

Six key goals have been prioritised.

They include "consolidating the Paralympic Games as a premier sporting event", "empowering Para-athletes and supporting the development of Para-sports", and "improving the recognition and value of the Paralympic brand".

Building sustainable funding is also cited, as well as shaping organisational capability and fostering key strategic partnerships.

“In 2014, the IPC celebrated its 25th anniversary, an event that highlighted just how far the Paralympic Movement has come in a relatively short space of time," said its President Sir Philip Craven.

“Despite this success, we cannot be complacent.

"Our successes from the last quarter of a century, and in particular the results from the last four year strategic planning cycle, must now act as the foundations for future growth.

“Through the strategic plan 2015-2018, the IPC aims to become an even more athlete-centred organisation.

"The sporting world is evolving and we need to be leading the way, working together with athletes to overcome the challenges we face and take advantage of the many opportunities that are out there."

The new International Paralympic Committee strategic plan aims to continue the success achieved since 2011 ©IPC

Continuing the success of the Paralympic Games and the Movement's relationship with the IOC is also highlighted by Sir Philip.

But he also wants the IPC to explore new commercial and development opportunities in collaboration with the Agitos Foundation.

Improving governance, particularly in regard to athlete classification, is also mentioned, as is embracing Para-sports at the grassroots as well as those who qualify for the Paralympics.

To coincide with the launch of the new plan, the IPC has developed a new "aspiration", entitled: “To make for a more inclusive society for people with an impairment through Para-sport.”

This follows the last IPC Strategic Plan in 2011, which led to the launch of the Agitos Foundation the following year, as well as an extended sponsorship portfolio, more IPC staff and greater attendance at global and regional sporting events.

“The Paralympic Games are now the world’s third biggest sporting event and the world’s number one sporting event for driving social inclusion," added Sir Philip, the Briton elected for a fourth and, what he claimed, final four-year term in office in 2013.

“This is a position we want to maintain, however by developing a 365-day sporting calendar, we want Para-sport at all levels, and not just at the Games, to act as a catalyst for making for a more inclusive society.

"Therefore we developed a new aspiration and adapted our vision accordingly to reflect this change in approach.”

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