Singapore Business Federation Foundation raises $1.45 million to boost inclusive employment

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) Foundation has raised more than $1.45 million through its flagship EmployWell initiative to support vulnerable individuals in finding meaningful and sustained employment.

The announcement came after more than 1,000 participants joined the first-ever EmployWell–Walk for Work 2025 event on November 9 at Marina Bay. Over 40 companies took part in the 4 km walk, including major employers such as Micron Semiconductor, SBS Transit, and Stahl Asia Pacific, each mobilising over 100 employees in support of inclusive hiring.

Flagged off by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who also serves as the patron of the SBF Foundation, the event aimed to spotlight how businesses can play a direct role in enabling job reintegration for those facing social or personal challenges.

“Inclusive hiring is more than a social responsibility,” said President Tharman. “When we open doors to those who have had a difficult journey, we build teams with greater breadth of perspective.”

The EmployWell programme, launched as a pilot in 2022, focuses on connecting individuals—including the homeless, women in crisis, and people recovering from mental health conditions—with employers offering supportive and stable workplaces. Since the programme began, more than 900 individuals have found jobs through over 140 partner companies, and about seven in ten have stayed employed beyond the first three months — a sign that continued support makes a difference.

Money raised from the Walk for Work event will go towards providing training, connecting job seekers with employers, and promoting inclusive hiring practices.

SBF Foundation chief executive Jean Tan said the strong response showed a common belief that doing well in business and doing good for society can go together.