Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, is providing $15M to the Asia Foundation to launch the APAC Cybersecurity Fund in partnership with CyberPeace Institute and Global Cyber Alliance to bolster cyber capabilities of 300,000 underserved micro and small businesses, nonprofits, and social enterprises.

Working with implementing organizations and universities across the region, The Asia Foundation aims to equip local communities and students via upskilling tools and cyber clinics to protect against online risks. The initiative will span 13 locations, including Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, said a press release.

Asia and the Pacific has become “ground zero” for cybercrimes, recording the highest number of cyber incidents worldwide in 2023.

Seeking to build a digital ecosystem that is inclusive and safe for all, the APAC Cybersecurity Fund, through The Asia Foundation, will connect small businesses and vulnerable groups to local training opportunities and resources to build and strengthen their digital defense.

“We are proud to support The Asia Foundation in equipping vulnerable organizations, such as small and medium enterprises and nonprofits, across Asia Pacific with essential cybersecurity skills and resources to combat the growing cyber threats as they navigate through the digital economy,” Marija Ralic, Lead for Google.org APAC.

In Sri Lanka, which ranked 81 out of 175 countries in 2020’s National Cyber Security Index, scoring especially low in protection for digital and essential services, the program aims to reach up to 5000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) covering 10000 individuals. Country Representative for The Asia Foundation in Sri Lanka, Dinesha De Silva highlights the essential nature of the program. “In the context of Sri Lanka’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, it is imperative to recognize the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises as both the drivers of innovation and economic growth, and as prime targets for cyber threats.”

Sudheera Jayarathne, Director of the Small Enterprises Development Division, a local implementing partner of the program, also shared his thoughts on the potential impact of the program on MSMEs. “The Small Enterprises Development Division is making constant efforts to develop businesses by applying modern digital technology for businesses and have identified the need to provide knowledge on Cyber Hygiene and Cyber Security to Small and Medium Businesses.”