IMPACT AREAS

SOCIAL & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT

THE CHALLENGE

Despite periods of economic growth, Türkiye continues to grapple with deep and persistent social and economic inequalities. Poverty affects 14.4% of the population, with children disproportionately impacted—one in three grows up in poverty compared to 17.2% of adults. Economic instability and high inflation have pushed more families into hardship, forcing many children to leave school to work. Income inequality is widening: the top 20% of earners take home nearly half of the nation’s income, while the poorest 20% receive less than 6%. Although poverty rates fell from over 20% in 2007 to 7.6% by 2021, recent economic shocks have reversed progress, leaving marginalized communities with limited access to decent work, sustainable livelihoods, and the resources needed to break the cycle of poverty.

WHAT WE DO

READY TO TAKE ACTION?

Asset 25 (2)Asset 26 (2)

  • Refik Anadol Award to Support the Next Generation of Changemakers in Turkiye

    This project empowers Türkiye’s next generation of changemakers by providing funding and mentorship to transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions. By supporting young graduates—especially those affected by the February 6 earthquake—the program helps build forward resilient leaders who will shape a stronger future for Türkiye.

    Social & Economic Development
    $20,031 USD / $200,000 USD
  • Empower Girls in Hatay with Bicycles - Mavi Kalem

    Strong Pedals empowers adolescent girls in post-earthquake Hatay by providing bicycles, creating opportunities for mobility, independence, and outdoor activity. Your support helps these girls gain freedom, confidence, and safe spaces to play, socialize, and thrive despite the ongoing challenges of displacement and recovery.

    Social & Economic Development
    $1,524 USD / $10,000 USD
  • Give Young Graduates a Fair Start-  Esas Sosyal

    Many young graduates in Türkiye, especially from second-tier universities, struggle to find paid work after finishing their studies. Limited internships, scarce networks, and lack of career guidance leave talented youth with few opportunities. Esas Sosyal’s programs provide scholarships, mentorship, training, and internships to help first-generation university graduates gain skills, experience, and confidence to secure meaningful employment. With your support, more young people can overcome barriers, find work they deserve, and build brighter futures.

    Social & Economic Development
    $27,461 USD / $35,000 USD
  • TPF Turkiye Deep Poverty Fund

    Help families access food, cash support, and sustainable livelihoods. Your donation provides immediate relief and long-term solutions to break the cycle of extreme poverty.

    Social & Economic Development
    $24,018 USD / $150,000 USD
  • Unvansiz Gonulluler - Help Restore Bee Populations in Antalya

    Support beekeepers affected by wildfires and protect vital local ecosystems. Your donation provides hives and resources to ensure bees thrive and honey production recovers.

    Social & Economic Development
    $0 USD / $20,000 USD

STORIES

  • November 23, 2025

    Weaving Art, Memory, and Hope


    Hüsamettin Koçan was born in a remote village 45 kilometers from Bayburt, where life was defined by hard work and resilience. Raised by his mother in this rugged..

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  • November 23, 2025

    You Can Be in the Olympics — as a Supporter!


    At just 17, Derin Deniz Sorguç is already making history for Türkiye. She began her sporting journey with horse riding and skiing, but it was kiteboarding that truly..

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  • November 22, 2025

    From Streets to Treats


    A year ago, Türkiye introduced the “Animal Protection Law,” allowing stray animals to be collected and placed in shelters. Yet the reality has proven challenging. While shelter capacity..

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  • November 20, 2025

    What power does a scholarship hold?


    What power does a scholarship hold? More than we can imagine. Even a modest stipend for a high school student can change the course of a life. It can enable a young woman..

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  • January 23, 2024

    Carrying Forward Zehra Taşman’s Legacy


    Nearly a decade ago, Sibel unlocked the door to a modest beauty center in Bolu, a quiet city ringed by forests and mountains. What began as a means of livelihood soon..

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