The resurgence of philanthropic focus on Southeast Asia
For years, Southeast Asia has been an overlooked region in global philanthropy, often overshadowed by larger economies or humanitarian crises elsewhere. But recent moves suggest a shift is underway. The Rockefeller Foundation’s decision to relaunch its Asia Regional Office in Bangkok is a signal that international philanthropy is recognising the region’s pressing challenges and potential for impact. The Rockefeller Foundation, which has been investing in Asia for over 100 years, first opened an office in Bangkok in 1964.
“The Rockefeller Foundation has long used spaces and places to connect unlikely partners and drive progress on the world’s most pressing challenges.”
This is not an isolated event. The Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) has also been expanding its focus on Southeast Asia, particularly through climate resilience and impact investing initiatives. A 2024 report from the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS) further underscores this trend, highlighting growing local philanthropic efforts and increasing collaboration with global funders.
So, what does this renewed focus on Southeast Asia mean?
Climate and health as priorities – The Rockefeller Foundation’s regional office will focus on climate resilience, health equity, and food security—issues that are deeply interconnected in Southeast Asia, where rising temperatures and economic disparities pose mounting risks.
A shift towards local (or locally-led) partnerships – Global philanthropy is moving away from top-down (“Global North”) models. Organisations like Rockefeller and AVPN actively work with local governments, businesses, and NGOs to co-create solutions rather than impose them.
Blended finance and impact investing – Philanthropy in the region is increasingly linked to innovative financing models, blending private capital with philanthropic funding to scale impact. This is evident in AVPN’s new Climate Action Platform, which connects investors and funders with climate-focused projects in Southeast Asia.
The rising role of local philanthropists – While global players are stepping up, local philanthropists and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives are also expanding. According to CAPS, private giving in Asia is on the rise, but better infrastructure and transparency are needed to sustain this momentum.
Bangkok as a strategic hub – The choice of Bangkok for Rockefeller’s office reflects Thailand’s growing role as a regional centre for philanthropy and impact investment. It’s a refreshing move away from Singapore, signalling Thailand as the new gateway to both emerging and developed markets, making it an ideal base for cross-sector collaboration.
This renewed focus on Southeast Asia represents a shift towards long-term, systemic solutions rather than reactive aid. It acknowledges that the region is not just a recipient of philanthropic capital but a key player in shaping global solutions to climate change, health crises, and economic inequality.
For funders and organisations looking to engage, the opportunity is clear: Southeast Asia is no longer on the periphery of global philanthropy, but it’s at the centre of some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities of our time.
Check out the full announcement from The Rockefeller Foundation here, and learn more about AVPN’s impact initiatives here.
