Near East Foundation (NEF)

Helping build more sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities in the Middle East and Africa through education, community organizing, and economic development

The Near East Foundation helps build more sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities in the Middle East and Africa through education, community organizing, and economic development.

For nearly 100 years, the Near East Foundation has pioneered innovative solutions to social and economic development challenges impacting communities throughout the Middle East and Africa.

Headquartered in Syracuse, NY, and engaged in a strategic partnership with Syracuse University, NEF is an operational non-governmental organization (NGO) with current programs in nine countries: Armenia, Jordan, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Palestine, Senegal,  Sudan, and Syria.

In these countries and throughout the region, we work with local partners to directly improve the lives of tens of thousands of vulnerable people each year through initiatives in sustainable agriculture, microenterprise development, women’s empowerment, civic education, and peacebuilding.

Latest news and articles

From insights to impact: Shaping science-based action on resilience

At a high-level workshop in Washington, DC, leaders in finance, policy, science and other sectors came together to refine the Resilience Science Must-Knows, a set of insights drawn from the latest resilience research, and shape a shared path toward science-based action.

Zanskar’s silent echo: Can community tourism revive a Himalayan legacy?

Learn how HKH-ICE winner Heco - Himalayan Ecotourism is working with local communities in Zanskar to reclaim tourism, blend tradition and sustainability, and protect their cultural legacy.

The power of Community-Based Organisations: Investing in local solutions for lasting change

RAIN 1 winner Itanya Africa Group champions locally-led climate solutions through community-driven mindset shifts, regenerative farming practices, and trusted local influencers.

Introducing 19 innovations driving resilient agriculture in East Africa

Learn more about the RAIN 3 shortlisted candidates; innovative agricultural solutions across East Africa advancing resilience, sustainability, and community impact.

The songs of the forest: A symphony of nature, science, and the human spirit

Learn how Knowledge into Use Awards winner Sekola Adat uses plant music to connect Dayak tradition, science, and conservation in Borneo.