HNPW 2026: Corporate Philanthropy and Engagement in Humanitarian Action: How can businesses step up?

Humanitarian aid in Asia is at a crossroads, and greater collaboration is needed to address funding gaps amidst growing global crises. Corporate foundations in the region are increasingly important partners in humanitarian response. A recent report commissioned by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Malaysia estimates that corporate philanthropy in Southeast Asia could generate USD $5.3 billion—nearly six times the 2024 USAID budget for the region—suggesting that philanthropic giving is growing and shifting toward alignment with national development priorities, better use of data, and a focus on collaborative outcomes.

Asian businesses have a long history of supporting communities beyond financial contributions. The private sector is a vital catalysts providing rapid, technical, and coordinated support before, during, and after disasters. Corporations can mobilize heavy machinery, specialized rescue teams, and communication technology for immediate relief and long-term recovery. 

This session explores how corporate foundations leverage expertise and industry networks to support disaster response operations across Asia. Through interactive discussions, participants will explore mechanisms that enable and scale solutions for more effective, locally led humanitarian action.                     

SESSION OBJECTIVES

Demonstrate how corporate philanthropy and businesses contribute beyond financial assistance, leveraging their expertise in manufactory, infrastructure, technology and industry networks to enhance humanitarian action. Identify best practices and approaches for effective partnerships with the private sector, showcasing how businesses can co-develop and implement solutions that improve disaster preparedness, accelerate response efforts, and support long-term community recovery. Clarify what foundations and donors aren’t interested in as well as their evolving priorities and operational approaches given the political landscape.

Participants

Participants from the humanitarian, private sector, development, government, and academic communities are invited to this session, which will have a particular focus on how to strengthen collaboration in crisis response through technology, innovation and expertise from some of the leading private sector companies in Asia in humanitarian preparedness, response and recovery. The session aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, promote trust between public and private sector actors, and explore practical ways foundations and businesses can contribute to humanitarian action.

PROGRAMME

16:00-16:10. Welcome and Opening Remarks
16:00-16:10. Interactive Exercise
16:30-17:10. Panel Discussion
17:10-17:25. Panel Dialogue and Audience Q&A
17:25-17:30. Closing RemarksPanel Discussion