In 2025, the Algorand (ALGO) Foundation launched a transformative initiative to modernize the delivery of humanitarian aid using blockchain technology. The initiative focused on improving the speed, transparency, and security of aid distribution, particularly in regions like Afghanistan and Syria, where conventional monetary systems have faltered, according to Algorand Foundation.
In Afghanistan, the Algorand Foundation partnered with HesabPay to facilitate the distribution of digital currency to over a million people. This partnership, supported by organizations like the United Nations World Food Programme and the World Bank, provided a secure and efficient means of delivering aid in a country grappling with banking system failures. Additionally, HesabPay expanded its services beyond emergency aid, allowing users to pay for utilities, thereby integrating digital wallets into everyday life.
In Syria, the Algorand Foundation collaborated with entities such as Mercy Corps and local NGOs to introduce blockchain-enabled aid solutions. These efforts demonstrated the efficacy of stablecoin payments in enhancing the speed and transparency of aid distribution in one of the world’s most challenging humanitarian environments. The initiative also aimed to build local capacity, with Algorand consultants providing on-the-ground support for technical and operational challenges.
In September 2025, the Algorand Foundation convened the Humanitarian Aid Payments Council in Berlin. This gathering brought together major institutions from various sectors to explore innovative methods for delivering aid. The council served as a platform for discussing the potential of stablecoins and blockchain technology to revolutionize aid infrastructure, emphasizing real-world applications over theoretical discussions.
To further its mission, the Algorand Foundation launched the Blockchain Academy for Humanitarian Aid, a training program for UN and NGO staff worldwide. The academy has trained hundreds of personnel, equipping them with the knowledge to leverage blockchain technology for secure and transparent aid delivery. Looking ahead to 2026, the foundation plans to expand its successful initiatives in Afghanistan and Syria and deepen collaborations in Africa to reach underserved populations.
The Algorand Foundation’s efforts in 2025 have laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and efficient global aid system, showcasing the transformative potential of blockchain technology in humanitarian contexts.
