The fintech ecosystem in Singapore continues to thrive and Australian-born global fintech leader Airwallex is stepping up its efforts to give back to the community.
Through Airwallex Impact, the company is strengthening its social impact to support startups, drive innovation and foster philanthropy in Singapore and beyond.
Make philanthropy a priority
Airwallex joined the 1% movement commitment in November 2024, committing 1% of its equity, valued at more than US$56 million, as well as 1% of employee time, profits and products to community and philanthropic efforts.
This sustainable model ensures that Airwallex’s growth is directly linked to its ability to contribute to society.
Additionally, Airwallex is scaling up its Airwallex for Startups program, which aims to enable startups to effectively grow and scale their businesses.
The program, first launched in Hong Kong in 2023, is now available in Singapore and Australia.
To date, more than 2,000 startups have benefited from benefits including networking events, partner offers and mentoring.
Supporting Singapore’s thriving startup ecosystem
Singapore’s strategic location and strong fintech landscape make it an ideal hub for innovation.
Airwallex’s efforts in Singapore reflect its recognition of the city-state’s central role in promoting entrepreneurship.
THE Singapore Fintech Association (SFA) welcomed the launch of Airwallex Impact.
“We are encouraged by the launch of Airwallex Impact on a global scale, especially as it commits 1% or more to corporate philanthropy through a model sustainable. »
said Shadab Taiyabi, president of the SFA.
This month, Airwallex awarded its first business grant of SG$10,000 to Nalini Veeraghanta, co-founder and COO of NatureThingsa promising Singapore-based startup consolidating services to integrate nature into urban environments for human and spatial well-being.
Veeraghanta was awarded the grant after competing against eight other finalists before a jury comprising the Singapore Fintech Association (SFA), Tin Men Capital, iGlobe Partners and Airwallex.
“We will use this grant to build a prototype IoT sensor to measure humidity and soil moisture levels of plants,” explained winner Veeraghanta.
This initiative reflects its commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions, as well as the broader objectives of Airwallex Impact.
By offering direct support to entrepreneurs like Veeraghanta, Airwallex unlocks the next level of growth for startups by providing them with essential access to the financing, tools and networks needed to scale their business.
Building a culture of giving
The Airwallex Impact program is not limited to financial contributions, it also encourages employees to give back with their time and expertise.
From 2025, all 1,600 Airwallex employees will devote three days per year to volunteering.
Two days will support Airwallex Impact initiatives, while the third can be dedicated to any non-profit organization of their choice.
This builds on Airwallex’s experience in empowering communities.
Through initiatives such as the AI Build Club and mentoring programs with Techstars in Australia, Airwallex has supported underrepresented founders and helped startups overcome technology and innovation barriers.
Jack Zhang, CEO and co-founder of Airwallex, emphasized the importance of giving back,
“Airwallex employees are among the brightest and boldest across a wide range of disciplines. Their expertise has been at the heart of our growth and the learnings they have accumulated within a fast-growing startup are immense.
Beyond building our own business, there are great rewards and joys in paying it forward to help the entire ecosystem thrive.
Empowering communities through education and innovation
Airwallex’s philanthropic journey began in 2022 with an official partnership with the University of Melbourne to fund scholarships for students from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to financial support, the partnership provided mentoring and internship opportunities, helping students gain valuable skills and real-world experience.
Airwallex Impact aims to expand these efforts in Singapore and beyond, supporting talented students in their efforts to become the technology leaders of tomorrow.
Starting in mid-2025, Airwallex will also offer discounted products to select nonprofit organizations, allowing them to access cutting-edge fintech tools at reduced costs.
This aims to ensure that nonprofits can maximize their impact with the best technology available.
A shared vision for Fintech excellence
Airwallex’s initiatives align with Singapore’s vision of fostering innovation, inclusiveness and sustainability.
“We are encouraged that Airwallex, an Australian-born startup turned global unicorn, has launched Airwallex Impact. This growth will formalize Airwallex’s corporate philanthropy efforts to promote a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Airwallex’s continued expansion, particularly in South East Asia, aligns with Austrade’s mission to support Australian businesses. We are proud of their global success and look forward to seeing the power of Airwallex Impact,”
said Australia.
The road ahead
Airwallex Impact is more than a philanthropic program, it is a long-term plan to integrate social responsibility into company operations.
This approach sets a new standard for the fintech industry, demonstrating how business success and community support can go hand in hand.
As Airwallex expands its presence in Singapore and the region, its focus on empowering startups, promoting innovation and giving back will continue to drive positive change.
“By leveraging a strong ecosystem and support from other innovators, fintechs have the capacity to be a force for good,” added Taiyabi. “We look forward to seeing more like-minded companies embark on such initiatives and will continue to support them in creating a strong ecosystem in which all can thrive.” »
Airwallex’s efforts reflect a new chapter in purpose-driven growth, where innovation and social impact come together to create meaningful and lasting value.