San Francisco

The Asia Foundation has a unique role and history in San Francisco, a city long recognized as the gateway to a dynamic Asia-Pacific and a leading global center of innovation. Today’s premier international development organization in Asia was founded in San Francisco, borne out of remarkable hope for Asia’s emergence as a key region on the global stage. More than 60 years ago, a group of forward-thinking pioneers created The Asia Foundation, prominent Bay Area citizens who shared a strong interest in Asia, distinguished personal achievements, and dedicated public service who were devoted to promoting democracy, rule of law, and market-based development in post-war Asia.

In the founding spirit of The Asia Foundation, the nonprofit brings together local individuals, communities, and governments who are shaping Asia’s future. The San Francisco headquarters hosts a diverse range of global leaders, influencers, and innovators to help inform and address the many critical issues affecting Asia in the 21st century. Notable speakers include: Former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea Yoon Young-kwan; Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop; Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj; Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, founder and chairman of BRAC; Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar, among others.