Strengthening Digital Resilience for Underserved Communities
In today’s fast-evolving digital economy, micro and small businesses, nonprofits, and social enterprises face rising risks from cyber threats. To bridge this gap, Google.org has committed $15 million to launch the APAC Cybersecurity Fund, implemented by The Asia Foundation in partnership with CyberPeace Institute and Global Cyber Alliance.
The initiative will empower 300,000 underserved organizations across 12 countries—including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam—through cyber hygiene training, awareness-building, and policy advocacy.
In Bangladesh, SAJIDA Foundation serves as the national implementing partner, leading localized training efforts to ensure small organizations and entrepreneurs can safely and confidently navigate the digital space.
Our Approach
SAJIDA Foundation has adopted a blended model of online and offline training to maximize reach and accessibility:
- Offline training delivered through 18 regional offices, targeting peri-urban and rural areas.
- Online training via Facebook, YouTube, and digital platforms with localized content, interactive modules, and incentives such as mobile data recharges.
- Capacity-building team including two Master Trainers, 20 Field Trainers, and a Project Director to ensure quality, consistency, and wide coverage.
- Curriculum localisation to address Bangladesh’s unique digital risks, co-created with The Asia Foundation.
Progress to Date
- Offline Module: Target 25,400 | Achieved 16,596 (as of 31 August 2025).
- Online Module: Target 44,600 | Achieved 31,368 (as of 2 September 2025).
Participants receive hands-on training, practical tips, and refresher materials to strengthen their ability to identify phishing attacks, secure data, and maintain cyber hygiene in their organizations.
Regional Innovation
The APAC Cybersecurity Fund also supports:
- University-based cyber clinics in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Singapore to build the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
- Policy dialogues and localized research to influence regulatory reforms and strengthen the overall cybersecurity ecosystem.
Our Vision
By equipping entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and social enterprises with practical cyber skills, the initiative aims to:
- Build resilience in Bangladesh’s digital economy.
- Foster safe adoption of technology among women and underserved communities.
- Contribute to a more secure Asia-Pacific region where growth is inclusive and sustainable.