About Us
Explore the 2025 YSEALI Seeds for the Future Program and join a community of young leaders committed to driving change across Southeast Asia.
Apply now to receive funding, mentorship, and the support needed to bring your innovative ideas to life.
YSEALI Seeds for the Future
The YSEALI Seeds for the Future program is a flagship grant competition under the U.S. government’s Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI). Launched in 2015, this program empowers young changemakers across Southeast Asia by providing them with the resources, funding, and mentorship necessary to turn their innovative ideas into impactful projects.
Each year, YSEALI Seeds for the Future awards grants of up to $12,000 to youth-led teams across ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste. These grants support projects that address some of the region’s most pressing issues, including civic engagement, economic empowerment, social entrepreneurship, education, and environmental sustainability.
The program is more than just a grant—it offers a complete growth and learning experience. Winning teams are not only funded but also connected to experienced mentors who provide tailored guidance throughout their nine-month project journey. From kick-off workshops to ongoing support, the initiative fosters the development of leadership, project management, and cross-border collaboration skills, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to make a real difference in their communities.
Since its inception, YSEALI Seeds for the Future has provided over $2.5 million in funding, reaching hundreds of young leaders and transforming lives across the region. Whether you’re scaling an existing project or starting a new initiative, YSEALI Seeds for the Future offers the tools, network, and platform to bring your vision to life.
About YSEALI
The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) is the U.S. government’s premier program for engaging with youth leaders in Southeast Asia. Since its launch in 2013, YSEALI has aimed to build a vibrant and interconnected community of young leaders who work together to address shared challenges and create lasting, positive change across the region.
YSEALI is designed for young leaders between the ages of 18 to 35 who are passionate about solving critical issues in their communities. Through a wide range of programs—including fellowships, exchange programs, and regional workshops—YSEALI helps participants develop the skills, connections, and leadership abilities needed to make a meaningful impact..
YSEALI’s Core Focus Areas
- 01
Civic Engagement
Encouraging active participation in democratic processes and community-building efforts.
- 02
Economic Empowerment
Supporting innovative solutions to drive economic growth and create sustainable businesses.
- 03
Education
Promoting education initiatives that improve access to learning and educational outcomes.
- 04
Environmental Sustainability
Tackling urgent environmental issues through sustainable practices and awareness initiatives.
With over 150,000 members from ASEAN nations and Timor-Leste, YSEALI fosters cross-border collaboration, networking, and learning opportunities. The initiative strengthens relationships between Southeast Asian nations and the United States, helping to build a more prosperous, interconnected, and resilient region.
YSEALI participants have access to numerous opportunities, including leadership training, professional exchanges, and grant programs like YSEALI Seeds for the Future, making it one of the most impactful platforms for youth development in Southeast Asia.
