<p>In the pursuit of sustainable development goals (SDG), embracing an inclusive growth model is an essential and inevitable strategy for achieving equitable and enduring economic progress. Inclusive finance, as a key institutional arrangement, plays a pivotal role in advancing these goals by enhancing economic empowerment and societal well-being. This study comprehensively explores whether inclusive finance catalyzes inclusive growth in China. We begin by formulating a theoretical framework to investigate how inclusive finance and inclusive growth are correlated. Then, inclusive finance and inclusive growth are measured by the modified CRITIC method. Further, the machine learning (ML) models are constructed to examine the link between inclusive finance and inclusive growth and to determine whether their relationship exhibits linear or non-linear characteristics. What’s more, traditional econometric models have been introduced to complement the research achievements of ML algorithms. The econometric model shows that China’s inclusive finance has a significant positive promoting effect on inclusive growth by stimulating innovation and enhancing household wealth. Based on empirical analysis, we propose policy suggestions for enhancing the capability of inclusive finance to reinforce inclusive growth in China. The findings offer a potential pathway for China and other developing economies in leveraging inclusive finance to achieve the SDGs.</p>