Support 70 Social Enterprises Through ASEAN Social Enterprise Development Programme (ASEAN SEDP)
Building on the success of the ASEAN Social Enterprise Development Programme (ASEAN SEDP) Phases 1 and 2 in 2021 and 2023, the ASEAN Foundation, with support from TikTok and SAP, launched ASEAN SEDP 3.0.
Under the theme “Empowering Social Enterprises to Drive Meaningful Change in ASEAN,” this third phase aims to equip early and emerging social enterprises across Southeast Asia with the essential skills and insights to address pressing social and environmental challenges.
In addition to tailored training and mentorship, participants of ASEAN SEDP 3.0 attended a Regional Workshop in Jakarta from 18-20 November 2024. This followed 14 virtual training sessions held in June and July 2024, as well as a Virtual Demo Day in August, where participants presented innovative projects poised to create lasting community impact across the region.
Since its inception, ASEAN SEDP has made significant impact by reaching over 133,143 people and supporting 70 social enterprises in the region through virtual training and mentorship, seed grants, and business matchmaking, connecting them with investors and ACCMSME-nominated officials. Over the past two years, 74% of these enterprises have been women-led, underscoring the program’s focus on empowering female entrepreneurs.
Additionally, 22% of the enterprises have created employment opportunities for people with disabilities, further demonstrating the program’s commitment to inclusivity and social impact. This year, 30 social enterprises across 10 ASEAN Member States were selected out of a pool of 278 applicants. They received training, funding, and mentorship to strengthen their capabilities and enable them to create sustainable and positive impacts within their communities.
“Entering the third year of ASEAN SEDP, we are very proud to continue supporting social enterprises in the Southeast Asian region. Over the years, the programme has empowered a dynamic community of innovators focused on solving urgent social and environmental challenges. We have seen firsthand the transformative impact these enterprises have had on their communities.”
“This journey has equipped participants with the skills, resources, and connections needed to scale their solutions. We hope that the knowledge gained from this programme will be effectively implemented, enabling their efforts to bring the positive changes needed in the ASEAN market,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of ASEAN Foundation.
