Ashmore Foundation

Investing locally in Emerging Markets Communities

The Ashmore Foundation was established in January 2008 and seeks to make a positive and sustainable difference in the Emerging Markets communities in which Ashmore operates and invests. To achieve this goal, the Foundation aims to develop long-term relationships with high impact local non-government organisations (NGOs). Our financial support enables these organisations to directly enhance human welfare, opportunities and skills, particularly for the most vulnerable: children, young people and disadvantaged communities. As well as working directly with NGOs we work alongside other international funders to identify and support local solutions to social problems.

The three main areas of focus for the Ashmore Foundation are:

Education

• Making education more inclusive for vulnerable children and young people
• Improving access to and quality of education
• Preparing disadvantaged students for real life

Health

• Increasing knowledge of and access to nutrition, safe water and sanitation for disadvantaged communities
• Improving access to basic health services (particularly maternal and child health)
• Reducing risky behaviours of young people through education

Livelihoods

• Providing vocational training for disadvantaged young people
• Building community knowledge, resources and capacities for sustainable local enterprise
• Supporting effective social enterprise which benefits disadvantaged groups

The Foundation is supported solely by Ashmore and its employees globally. Crucially, this support from employees extends beyond financial aid through to active engagement in fundraising and a network of support which includes mentoring and helping NGOs expand their network of contacts.

In 2011, the Ashmore Foundation committed grants of up to 3 years to more than 30 organisations working throughout the Emerging Markets. Over £1.5 million has been donated to charitable causes since inception in 2008.

For organisations interested in applying for funding, or for further information, please read the latest Funding Guidelines 2012.