Bina Swadaya was founded by the "Ikatan Petani Pancasila" (Pancasila Farmers Association) on May 24, 1967. It was initially named the "Yayasan Sosial Tani Membangun" (Peasant Socio-economic Development Foundation). The establishment of Bina Swadaya was thereby related to the existence of "Gerakan Sosial Pancasila" (Pancasila Social Movement) made up of laborers, farmers, fishermen, paramedics, and entrepreneurs. The goal of the Pancasila Social Movement was to empower the community in accordance with the Pancasila ideals of independence of the Republic of Indonesia. As an independence and community empowerment vehicle, Bina Swadaya aims to work within the context of existing challenges. For its optimum performance and impact, the organization and approach of Bina Swadaya aids to undertake work which is suitable in the local social, economic and political environment.