A new chance has emerged for grassroots organizations in Southeast Asia seeking to tackle forced labor in electronics and mineral supply chains. It aims to support those closest to the problem—especially migrant workers and women—with grants to fuel meaningful, locally driven change.

This fund offers much-needed financial backing for initiatives focused on organizing and mobilizing workers, building support networks, and training people on labor rights and legal empowerment. It also encourages advocacy efforts that go after structural changes in the industry—efforts that seek to uproot systemic exploitation. The emphasis is very much on lifting worker voices and supporting action that starts from the bottom up.

Grants range between €10,000 and €30,000, a flexible funding window that should cover everything necessary to launch or sustain impactful projects. In addition to financial support, successful applicants can expect mentoring and assistance throughout implementation, along with increased visibility and network-building opportunities through the wider ElectroPower initiative.

Projects supported by the fund will run anywhere from one month to two years, giving space for both quick, flexible responses and more sustained programming. Though the launch is in August 2025, the fund expects funded work to begin in 2026—offering time to prepare and plan effectively.

Registration as a formal NGO is not required, but applicants must have deep connections to workers and a clear commitment to their rights. The fund is specifically aimed at organizations operating in Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia, and those applying should be rooted in these places—ready to support and lead community-driven change.

For organizations striving to elevate worker rights and defeat forced labor, this fund represents an opportunity to grow, collaborate, and make real headway.

For more information, visit Südwind.

https://www.suedwind.at/call-for-applications-electropower-fund/