Foundever earned Top Workplace in Asia, Top Community-Centric Company in Asia, and Most Inspiring Executive in Asia honors at the 2025 ACES Awards — reinforcing its commitment to people, purpose and leadership excellence across the region.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – Foundever®, the next-generation service leader reinventing customer experience (CX), marked a defining moment at the 2025 Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards.
Foundever wins multiple 2025 ACES Awards for leadership and workplace excellence.
Foundever in the Philippines was named Top Workplace in Asia for the fifth consecutive year and Top Community-Centric Company in Asia for the second year in a row. The organization also celebrated one of its leaders, Willy Lim, Vice President for HR, Marketing & Communications, and Talent Acquisition for the Philippines, China, Malaysia, New Zealand and Australia, as Asia’s Most Inspiring Executive.
Widely regarded as one of the region’s most selective platforms for leadership and sustainability, ACES recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence rooted in strong values, responsible leadership, and measurable impact.
These criteria reflect the commitment of Foundever to create a workplace where people and performance thrive together. ACES highlighted the company’s “practical blend of people-centric empathy and operational discipline,” a balance that continues to shape more than 33,000 employee experiences every year. Supporting this culture is Thrive at Foundever, a holistic wellness program that promotes physical, mental, social, and financial wellbeing of associates at work and beyond.
The same people-first philosophy is reflected in Willy Lim’s leadership. His inclusion among Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives highlights the role of trust, empathy and connection in building a strong workplace culture.
“Our responsibility as leaders is more than meeting goals but ensuring that every interaction with our associates builds trust, understanding, and a genuine sense of belonging,” Lim shared.
The latest ACES honors strengthen Foundever reputation as an employer of choice, adding to its recognition as Great Place to Work® Certified™.
Hashtag: #Foundever
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Foundever®
Foundever® is a global CX leader with 150,000 employees across 45+ countries, powering 3.3 billion annual conversations in over 60 languages for 800+ top brands. Using a people-led, technology-enabled, and data-powered approach, they simplify complex customer experiences and deliver scalable, seamless solutions that optimize human and digital operations.
Discover more at foundever.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – An iconic Swiss chocolate brand meets one of the world’s most celebrated names in crystal artistry to bring ‘Never Square’ to life. Creating something unexpected, something beautiful, and something that gives back: Toblerone today announces The Ultimate Gift.
The Making of – Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski
The centrepiece is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: an exceptionally rare series of hand-made crystal replicas of the original Toblerone chocolate bar – the gift many associate with travel. Familiar in form. Remarkable in execution. Individually numbered, certified, and utterly one-of-a-kind.
The Ultimate Gift: A Global Auction for Good
From 1st July to 31st July 2026, travellers passing through some of the world’s most iconic airports (Athens, Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Frankfurt, Madrid, New York JFK, Singapore and Zurich) will encounter a mesmerising pop-up experience celebrating both brands and, above all, will have the chance to bid in person on the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski.
Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski
Each auction is linked to the airport’s own established charity partner – organisations already embedded in their local communities and chosen by the airports themselves. 100% of winning bids will be donated to the designated charity at each location.
However, the auction is open to everyone globally. No need to be travelling to take part. Bidding is available online (terms and conditions apply), click here to visit the auction site and here for more information on the charities.
Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski unveiled in the Crystal Dome at Swarovski Kristallwelten
The Story Behind the Crystal Bar
Toblerone was born in Switzerland in 1908. Its triangular shape has made it one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world. For generations of travellers, it has been the gift you bring home: a small but indulgent, reliable piece of Switzerland.
To bring the Toblerone Crystal Bar to life, Toblerone turned to Swarovski. Swarovski delivers a diverse portfolio of unmatched quality, craftsmanship, and creativity. Founded in 1895 in Austria, the company designs, manufactures and markets high-quality crystals and created stones as well as finished products such as jewelry.
The two share more than Alpine geography. They share a belief that quality is not a detail but it is the point. That the things worth making are worth making properly. And that some of the most enduring objects in the world are the ones that manage to be both beautiful and, somehow, completely unpretentious about it.
The result is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: Toblerone’s unmistakable triangular form, unapologetically rich on the inside, reimagined as a luxury artefact through Swarovski’s crystal craftsmanship.
Iain Livingston, President Toblerone & World Travel Retail, says: “Toblerone has always been more than a chocolate bar. It’s a ritual, a symbol of travel, and one of the world’s most recognised gifts. Creating the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski feels like a natural expression of who we are: a brand that takes quality seriously but never takes itself too seriously. The Ultimate Gift is exactly that and will raise funds to support brilliant causes that help make the world a better place.”
The Craft Behind the Crystal
Each Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski is exclusively designed and developed using Swarovski’s rich savoir-faire:
Modelled on the original Toblerone chocolate bar & manufactured in Austria
Each weighs 851g and measures 305mm in length
546 individually cut facets per bar
140 hours of development and 65 hours of production – 100% handmade
Crafted with high-precision cutting technology, characterised by unmatched brilliance
The Ultimate Gift Box: Available to All
For those who prefer to take something home immediately, Toblerone is also launching a limited-edition Ultimate Gift Box adorned with Swarovski crystals, available exclusively in World Travel Retail throughout the campaign period across airports globally.
Inside: a Milk Toblerone bar.
Crystals on the outside. Unapologetically rich on the inside. The answer, as ever, to the question every traveller eventually asks themselves at the airport: “Where is my Toblerone?”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Toblerone
In 1908, Theodor Tobler and Emil Baumann invented a unique chocolate: Toblerone. “Toblerone” is a portmanteau of “Tobler” and “Torrone,” the Italian term for honey-almond nougat. Its distinctive triangular shape has been recognised around the world ever since. Today, production remains based in Bern Brünnen, where employees work with great passion every day — producing up to 4 million Toblerone products daily, with around 90 percent of all Toblerone sold worldwide manufactured right there in Bern.
Toblerone has never been square. Not in shape. Not in spirit. And not in ambition. Never Square is the belief that the best things in life refuse to conform — and that the most interesting gifts are rarely the obvious ones.
About Swarovski
Masters of Light Since 1895.
Swarovski creates beautiful products of impeccable quality and craftsmanship, celebrating joyful extravagance and self-expression.
Founded in 1895 in Austria by Daniel Swarovski, Swarovski creates the world’s finest crystals, Swarovski Created Diamonds, Swarovski Crystal Pearls and Swarovski Zirconia, jewelry, and accessories, as well as home décor and crystals for the automotive industry.
Swarovski Crystal Business operates in more than 140 countries worldwide, with 2,200 boutiques complemented by a network of selected multibrand partners and employs approximately 18,300 people globally. Together with its sister companies, Swarovski Optik and Tyrolit, it forms the Swarovski Group. Rooted in the company’s heritage, Swarovski strives to make a positive impact on people, society, and the planet. Today, sustainability measures are implemented throughout the value chain, with a focus on circular innovation, championing diversity and inclusion, and encouraging self-expression. This includes the philanthropic work of the Swarovski Foundation, which supports charitable organizations bringing positive environmental and social impact.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026, the highly-anticipated youth innovation competition, is back for its 10th edition in Singapore! As the world looks to navigate the uncertainties ahead, Solve for Tomorrow provides a platform for young changemakers to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to shape a better tomorrow for all. By inspiring youths in Singapore to rise up to the challenge and address key societal issues via innovation and technology, the competition encourages them to turn their creativity, ingenuity and passion into tangible solutions that can drive meaningful change in their communities.
“At Samsung, we believe that youths hold the key to shaping a better tomorrow for all. When given the right platform and opportunity to utilise their critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as their knowledge in STEM and artificial intelligence, they have the potential to devise groundbreaking innovations that can make a positive impact on our society and the world,” said Jeffrey Hahn, President, Samsung Electronics Singapore.
He added: “Solve for Tomorrow 2026 aims to be the catalyst that inspires meaningful change and positive action among our youths. This year, we are calling for youths in Singapore to join us in igniting the change for a better future. As they come together to dream big and turn ideas into action, we believe that they will find their place in our society and be equipped to make the change that they want to see in their future.”
Bella Teo, a member of Team BuddyBot, the Grand Prize winner of the Solve for Tomorrow 2025 competition, shares her experience: “Participating in the Solve for Tomorrow competition has truly expanded our horizons. The trip to Samsung’s innovation facilities in South Korea was an eye-opening experience that taught us how innovation that combines vision, fundamental values and the desire to solve real-world problems can create long-lasting impact. Seeing Samsung’s remarkable innovation journey, as well as the passion and inventiveness of other teams, spurs us on to continue our innovation journey. I am confident that we can achieve so much more if we set our minds to it, especially with the right support, mentorship and partners.”
Solve for Tomorrow 2026 will provide the opportunity for youths to develop interdisciplinary skills like critical thinking, problem-solving capabilities, as well as to expand their Science, Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) and AI knowledge, elevating their potential while preparing them for the workforce.
Ignite the Change Together for a Better Future
Samsung has identified four key themes for this year’s competition, to encourage submissions that can shape a better future for Singapore in 2026. Participants can develop their ideas around these themes:
1. Environmental Sustainability
Climate change is one of the most critical challenges of our time, and each person has a role to play in shaping a more sustainable future. Whether it’s conserving energy, reducing resource consumption, or improving recycling efforts, your actions can make a real difference. This is your moment to innovate, take action, and help build a better future for your nation and the world.
2. Sport, Health and Technology
Health is the foundation for a fulfilling and productive life—and innovation can make it more accessible for everyone. In a fast-changing world, sport and technology play a powerful role in supporting physical, mental and emotional well-being. By making it easier to stay active, reduce stress and build healthier lifestyles, your ideas can drive lasting impact for those around you.
3. Inclusivity and Social Harmony
Our society is constantly evolving, and everyone has a role in shaping a more inclusive and harmonious future. From creating solutions that remove existing barriers for people with disabilities, to fostering social inclusion for disadvantaged communities, you have the opportunity to make an impact by building a Singapore where everyone feels at home.
4. Trust, Security and Privacy
As AI reshapes our world, it presents powerful opportunities as well as new responsibilities. Building trust in the AI era requires a strong commitment to security, fundamental respect for privacy, and the skills to optimise the technology safely. By empowering society with these foundations, we can unlock innovation while shaping a secure and inclusive digital future for all.
Call for Entries Now Open, Ends 18 September 2026
From now till 18 September 2026, students can submit their entries for the competition by forming groups of two to four and submitting their innovative ideas or solutions on the Solve for Tomorrow 2026 website.
Eligibility: Full-time students aged 12 to 18 years old, enrolled in a secondary or international school in Singapore, including:
Secondary 1 to Secondary 5 students if they are enrolled in the following schools:
Acquisition strengthens local manufacturing and logistics capabilities as REJURAN Cosmetics expands across Sephora, Amazon and Canada, with future growth across the Americas in view
SEOUL, South Korea, July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PharmaResearch, the South Korea-based regenerative medicine company behind REJURAN, is strengthening its localization strategy across North America with the planned acquisition of Cosmetic Group USA, a U.S.-based cosmetics manufacturer also known as CG USA.
Representatives from PharmaResearch and CG USA pose for a group photo following the signing of the acquisition agreement.
PharmaResearch signed an agreement on June 30, local time, to acquire CG USA, a cosmetics OEM and ODM manufacturer, as demand for REJURAN Cosmetics continues to grow in the United States.
Based in California, CG USA is a cosmetics OEM and ODM manufacturer with capabilities across product planning, formula development, manufacturing, filling, packaging, and quality control. The company holds a cosmetics manufacturing license and operates an FDA-registered facility with a quality management system aligned with current good manufacturing practice, or cGMP, standards. Its manufacturing infrastructure also supports production of over-the-counter (OTC) products.
PharmaResearch decided to pursue the acquisition to respond more stably to growing demand for REJURAN Cosmetics, driven in part by its Sephora launch and expanding Amazon channel. Until now, the company has supplied the U.S. market with products manufactured in Korea. Through the acquisition of CG USA, PharmaResearch will secure a local manufacturing base, creating a foundation to improve supply chain efficiency and market responsiveness across production, logistics and distribution.
Building on this, the company plans to strengthen supply stability in North America while accelerating its localization strategy across the Americas to support future expansion into Canada, broader North America and South America.
REJURAN Cosmetics is PharmaResearch’s premium derma cosmetics brand, developed from the company’s regenerative medicine technology. Built around DOT™ c-PDRN®, the company’s patented cosmetic-grade PDRN ingredient, the brand has expanded its U.S. presence through online and offline retail channels, including Sephora and Amazon. REJURAN Cosmetics is also scheduled to enter Canada in the second half of the year, adding momentum to PharmaResearch’s broader North American expansion.
“The acquisition of CG USA is a strategic decision to strengthen supply stability and build a stronger foundation for business expansion in North America,” said Ji Hoon Sohn, CEO of PharmaResearch. “Through this acquisition, PharmaResearch will secure a local production base to support its growth in North America, while also gaining the potential to expand its ODM business in the U.S. over the mid to long term.”
Sohn added, “CG USA’s FDA-registered facility and OTC production capabilities make this acquisition meaningful not only for cosmetics, but also as a foundation for expanding into over-the-counter production. Based on local production capabilities and quality infrastructure, we will continue to strengthen the competitiveness of our global derma cosmetics business.”
A CG USA representative said, “We are pleased to partner with PharmaResearch at an important stage in the growth of REJURAN Cosmetics. We look forward to supporting the brand’s expansion by bringing together CG USA’s manufacturing capabilities and PharmaResearch’s expertise.”
Cosmo Group Inc. advised on the acquisition. Financial terms were not disclosed.
About PharmaResearch:
PharmaResearch is a pioneering biopharmaceutical company dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for humanity through regenerative medicine. Its diverse portfolio includes medicines, medical devices, cosmetics, and health supplements, all leveraging the core ingredients – DOT™ PDRN and DOT™ PN – which are protected by multiple patents. PharmaResearch is headquartered in Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea, and has a U.S. subsidiary located in Costa Mesa, California, United States.
CG USA, Cosmetic Group USA, is a Los Angeles-based cosmetics and personal care product development and manufacturing company founded in 1986. With a one-stop production system spanning research and development, manufacturing, filling and packaging, the company provides OEM and ODM services to global brands. CG USA operates an FDA-registered facility and holds ISO 22716 certification. Based on a quality management system aligned with cGMP standards, the company has the manufacturing capabilities to produce over-the-counter, or OTC, products.
*cGMP: A pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality management system that complies with U.S. FDA regulations.
Ayal Komod Sweeps Three Major Awards; Jolin Tsai’s Pleasure Wins Album of the Year and Best Female Singer (Mandarin)
TAIPEI, July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 37th Golden Melody Awards concluded successfully at the Taipei Arena, with this year’s ceremony centered around the theme of “Flowers.” Through five distinctive stage designs inspired by blooming flowers and cascading petals, the ceremony created an immersive visual experience celebrating the beauty of music.
Ayal Komod (left) and Jolin Tsai (right) celebrate their Golden Melody Awards victories / Photo: TTV
Singer-songwriter Ayal Komod emerged as the night’s biggest winner with his album Go With The Flow, taking home Best Mandarin Album, Best Male Singer (Mandarin), and Best Composer. Twelve years after winning Best Mandarin Album for Ayal Komod, he reflected on his latest achievement, saying, “What could be more meaningful than success? I’ll continue creating with kindness and strive to be a reliable and trustworthy partner.”
Jolin Tsai won both Album of the Year and Best Female Singer (Mandarin) for Pleasure. While Ugly Beauty previously earned Album of the Year at the 30th Golden Melody Awards, this marks Tsai’s first Best Female Singer (Mandarin) win in nineteen years. In her acceptance speech, she said, “Compared to last time, I felt much less nervous. Along the way, there has been plenty of noise, but I’ve always reminded myself to keep painting my own landscape, no matter what others say.”
Karen Mok performs at the Golden Melody Awards (left); The ceremony stage (right) / Photo: TTV
The ceremony also featured memorable performances by Karen Mok, who returned to the Golden Melody Awards stage for the first time in a decade, performing a five-song medley with The Master. Japanese rock band Hitsujibungaku captivated the audience with “more than words,” the ending theme from the anime Jujutsu Kaisen, delivering a powerful performance that earned enthusiastic applause.
Global Music Leaders Share Industry Insights as GMA37 Emerging Artists Shine
TAIPEI, July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 Golden Melody Festival has successfully concluded. As one of the most important B2B music industry platforms in the mandarin world, this year’s festival welcomed more than 50 music professionals and buyers from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia, strengthening connections between Taiwan’s music industry and the global market through the GMA Conference.
This year’s conference featured internationally renowned speakers discussing music production, global markets, and the music economy. U.S. Music Supervisor Brittany Whyte, known for The Twilight Saga and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, shared how music shapes the identity of film and television. Manuel ABUD, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy, explored the global rise of Latin music, emphasizing that emotional connection, industry collaboration, and cross-border partnerships matter more than language in reaching international audiences.
The festival also welcomed 30 international professionals and buyers from more than 20 countries and territories, the largest delegation in its history. Many first-time participants praised Taiwan’s vibrant music scene and expressed strong interest in future collaborations. Many praised the festival and noted that “Taiwanese pop music possesses a strong local identity. There are many outstanding artists and labels here whose music can truly resonate with audiences around the world.”
(2026 Golden Melody Festival Welcome Installation / Photo: TTV)
The Opening Event featured remarks from Gurjeet Chima, Global Vice President and Head of International Markets at Penske Media Corporation (PMC), parent company of Billboard. She remarked, “Music has the power to connect the world, and we have great confidence in the international potential of the Golden Melody Awards’ emerging artists,” while reaffirming PMC and Billboard‘s commitment to expanding global opportunities for Taiwanese artists.
From June 24 to 26, GMA Showcase featured nine groups of artists alongside performers from Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. Selected showcase acts will continue their international journey through the GMA Partnership Program, performing at Sonik Philippines, Waves Vienna, and Iceland Airwaves, further bringing Taiwanese music to audiences worldwide.
DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – Maritimo has appointed KJM Marine as its exclusive dealer across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and selected territories in the Middle East and Indian Ocean, reinforcing the Australian luxury motor yacht builder’s presence in one of the world’s most dynamic boating regions.
Founded by Bill Barry-Cotter and built in Australia, Maritimo is internationally recognised for its long-range motor yachts engineered for offshore performance, efficiency and owner-focused cruising comfort.
Under the agreement, KJM Marine will represent Maritimo in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as Egypt, Lebanon, the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles.
The appointment reflects growing interest in long-range cruising motor yachts across the region, where experienced owners value genuine offshore capability, reliability and practical onboard comfort.
Regional Experience with Full-Service Support
KJM Marine’s leadership team brings more than 15 years of experience in the large motor yacht segment across the Middle East. The company provides integrated sales and after-sales support, backed by an in-house technical team and a dedicated service facility managing commissioning, warranty requirements and ongoing maintenance.
KJM Marine also operates a mobile sales model, meeting clients across the region in their preferred locations. This relationship-focused approach aligns closely with Maritimo’s owner-first philosophy.
“KJM Marine is led by CEO Mohammad Aljasmi, supported by Sales Director and industry veteran Paurush Faeouk,” said Derrick Nowak, Maritimo’s Global Business Development Manager. “I have known Paurush for over three years and have seen first-hand his commitment to client relationships and professional service. During that time, I have watched KJM Marine develop strong capability and become an influential player in the regional yachting market. We believe they offer the right combination of local knowledge and industry experience to represent the Maritimo brand.”
Expanding Long-Range Representation
The Greater Middle East is an increasingly important market for long-range cruising motor yachts. Growth in marina infrastructure and a rising number of experienced owners are supporting this demand.
KJM Marine will represent Maritimo’s full range of luxury motor yachts, including the M-Series Flybridge Motor Yachts, S-Series Sedan Motor Yachts and Offshore Series models. Each model is designed for offshore performance, structural strength and genuine long-distance cruising comfort.
Built entirely in Australia and tested in demanding offshore conditions, Maritimo yachts are engineered for owners who value capability as much as comfort. Features such as enclosed and air-conditioned flybridge areas enable comfortable year-round cruising in the Middle East climate, while proven ocean-going hulls deliver confidence for longer passages across destinations such as the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles. Spacious indoor and outdoor entertaining zones, large adventure decks and swim platforms, together with panoramic opening saloon and flybridge windows, allow owners to move easily between climate-controlled comfort and open-air cruising.
Mohammad Aljasmi, CEO of KJM Marine, said:
“Maritimo is a beloved brand among certain yacht lovers in our part of the world, particularly those with a deep knowledge of yachting. We see strong opportunity not only with existing clients, but also with the many new residents choosing to make this region their home, as well as international visitors enjoying the waters of the Seychelles and Maldives.”
He added, “They offer superbly built yachts with true ocean-going performance and immaculate quality, designed for year-round enjoyment with features such as fully enclosed and air-conditioned flybridge areas, expansive entertaining spaces across multiple indoor and outdoor zones, large adventure decks and swim platforms that deliver a true connection to the water, and panoramic opening windows that create an open-air feeling when conditions are ideal.”
Through this partnership, Maritimo owners across the GCC and surrounding territories will benefit from dedicated local representation, technical expertise and dependable after-sales support.
Hashtag: #Maritimo
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Maritimo
Maritimo is Australia’s leading builder of long-range luxury motor yachts for the world. Formed within the Australian island continent and its vast coastline Maritimo has forged an international reputation. The company was founded by Australia’s most awarded boat builder, Bill Barry-Cotter, who last year celebrated 60 years of boat building excellence. Maritimo is built upon the principles of engineering excellence, build integrity, and design innovation. Hand built by the finest craftsmen, Maritimo offers luxury motor yachts of three distinctive Series—the M-Series Flybridge Motor Yachts, the S-Series Sedan Motor Yachts, and the Offshore Series Motor Yachts. Experience gained from the World Champion Maritimo Racing division infuses ocean-proven endurance and unparalleled abilities in the water into every Maritimo. maritimo.com.au
Strategy underscores its call for Asia’s leaders to shift from participation to leadership in advancing Asia-led solutions
SINGAPORE, July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AVPN, Asia’s largest platform for social impact, today announced a strategic evolution of its products and community models, in response to shifts in the global macro landscape and the growing urgency in Asia’s impact needs. The region faces a USD 26-trillion financing need through 2030 to maintain growth, eradicate poverty and respond to climate changes. AVPN is calling on Asia’s philanthropists, capital holders, and government leaders to take transformative action by shaping an Asia-led framework for how capital must be designed, deployed and coordinated – to meet Asia’s social and environmental needs. Entering its 15th year of moving capital towards Impact for Asia, this evolution affirms AVPN’s role as an Asia-led platform that builds an impact ecosystem rooted in on-ground realities, drives a more prosperous and inclusive Asia, and strengthens the region’s influence on global impact action.
“Asia can no longer be a passive participant in global impact conversations,” said Achal Agarwal, Chair, AVPN. “This USD 26‑trillion gap is not just a financing shortfall; it is an opportunity for Asia to design its own playbook and lead with frameworks grounded in our realities, while shaping global approaches for a more equitable, inclusive and prosperous future.”
Asia’s impact landscape is entering a phase of greater complexity and urgency, with capital pools growing, but deployment remaining fragmented across markets, sectors and stakeholder priorities. Official Development Assistance (ODA) fell by 23.1% in 2025 with a further decline projected for 2026, even as needs continue to rise. Global frameworks, while useful, often fail to capture Asia’s diversity, complexity and context. Within the region’s broader financing need, it also faces a USD 1.5 trillion annual SDG financing gap, underscoring the need for more coordinated capital.
AVPN’s strategic evolution introduces its community model, previously known as membership tiers, redesigned for impact at scale. This is to expand its engagement with the impact ecosystem, such that coordination and collaboration can be multiplied.
Vantage: A paid, relationship-led experience designed for organisations seeking deeper strategic engagement, dedicated support, curated connections, and leadership opportunities.
Discovery: A flexible engagement pathway that enables organisations to access the AVPN ecosystem and engage through a combination of complimentary and pay-per-use opportunities.
AVPN’s product portfolio remains focused around four thematic priorities – Climate Action, Health Impact, Gender Equality and Economic Inclusion, which will be activated through dynamic cross‑cutting levers such as AI, policy, impact investing and faith‑based giving. These impact levers ensure AVPN and its impact ecosystem continually unlock new forms of capital and innovation to meet the rising needs of the region.
The new strategy reinforces AVPN’s mission of translating intent into impact by bringing together people, ideas and resources for Asia, and its vision of a thriving impact ecosystem that drives a prosperous and inclusive Asia. AVPN delivers this strategy through flagship convenings such as the AVPN Global Conference and summits, pooled funds, policy dialogues and thematic‑specific initiatives, AVPN will amplify community voices, connect unlikely allies and catalyse coalitions that can drive systems‑level change. Current initiatives include partnerships with Indonesia on health impact, with India on energy transition, collaborations with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council on corporate CSR, and work with ASEAN Ministries of Education on economic inclusion enabled by AI and technology.
“When Asia leads with its own frameworks, informed by local realities and grounded in trust, partnership and mutuality, we can turn challenges into opportunities for generations to come. Asia’s leaders must now step up. There is no time to waste. We should not be participants in our own region; we need to be architects of our Asia-led blueprint for impact. And, AVPN’s role as a trusted impact ecosystem is to provide the connective tissue that allows capital to move with confidence across borders, sectors and instruments, so that ambition becomes action,” added Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO, AVPN.
Solving Asia’s social and environmental challenges demands the full continuum of capital, where grants, debt, and equity are intentionally aligned to move solutions from innovation to scale. Asia needs more than just diverse forms of capital but also shared accountability among partners that reduces perceived risk and enables actors across sectors to converge around collective outcomes. With over 700 organisations across 43 markets, and a 15-year track record of building Asia’s impact ecosystem, AVPN is committed to meet this challenge with clarity and purpose for the hundreds of millions of people whose futures depend on the region getting this right.
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About AVPN
AVPN is Asia’s largest platform for social impact, where over 700 resource providers, innovators and intermediaries from across 43 markets collaborate to mobilise capital. Grounded in deep regional expertise and partnerships, AVPN is building a thriving ecosystem that accelerates measurable progress toward inclusive growth, empowering Asia to lead the way in global impact. AVPN’s mission is to translate intent into impact by bringing together people, ideas, and resources for Asia. We do this by strengthening partnerships, fostering open collaboration, and enabling the coordinated flow of resources across markets and borders. Together with our community, AVPN is building a thriving impact ecosystem that drives a prosperous and inclusive Asia.
For more information about AVPN and our work, please visit our website and read our latest Annual Review.
