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

The Hindu Kush Himalaya Innovation Challenge for Entrepreneurs (HKH-ICE) 2.0  is now open!

Together with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), we are pleased to launch the second round of HKH-ICE.

Looking ahead with gratitude and shared purpose

Thank you for your support in 2025. We look forward to collaborating with you in 2026.

GRP launches Mobilising Business for Resilience to accelerate private sector action on climate adaptation and resilience

Launched at COP30 with IFC, Mobilising Business for Resilience (MBR) is a new platform helping companies turn climate risk awareness into action.

Meet the winners of the TECH4Resilience Challenge

Eight initiatives using AI-powered solutions to advance climate and disaster preparedness.

WBCSD and GRP announce the winners of the Climate Resilience Awards 

The winning submissions showcase real and cross-cutting solutions alongside COP30 Belem.