The Social Innovation Program of the West Asia and Islam Unit collaborates with philanthropic organizations, corporations, and investment-promotion institutions to develop entrepreneurial support ecosystems and expand initiatives that pursue social impact. Through these practical efforts, the program works to help establish sustainable institutional frameworks in partner countries and disseminates effective models and best practices.

In Japan and across Asia, the program also conducts pilot initiatives aimed at building inclusive societies that promote coexistence with foreign residents. Drawing on the lessons learned and successful models generated through these initiatives, the program presents scalable examples that can be adapted to other regions and countries. It further consolidates these findings into policy recommendations and submits them to governments and relevant institutions to support evidence-based policymaking.

Looking ahead, the program will continue to foster people-to-people dialogue networks that can contribute to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in West Asia and the Islamic world. In cooperation with philanthropic organizations, corporations, and investment-promotion institutions, it will promote the expansion of socially oriented economic activities. Through these collaborative efforts, the program seeks to help establish effective systems within partner countries, share proven models, and advance cooperative approaches to addressing shared regional challenges.

Note:
Projects previously implemented by the former Gender Investment and Innovation Program were transferred in FY 2024 to the Asia and Middle East Unit, and in FY 2026 to the Social Innovation Program of the West Asia and Islam Unit. The management of the Asia Women Impact Fund was transferred to the Accounting and Finance Department as part of the foundation's asset management operations.