About BRAC: Powering people to rise above poverty
Creating opportunities
BRAC is a leading international nonprofit with a mission to empower people and communities in situations of poverty, illiteracy, disease, and social injustice. We design proven, scalable solutions that equip people with the support, skills, and confidence they need to lift themselves out of poverty and achieve their potential.
A big vision for big change
BRAC envisions a world free from all forms of exploitation and discrimination, where everyone has the opportunity to realize their potential. Our approach is grounded in the conviction that people living in poverty can be agents of change if they are empowered with the tools, skills, and hope they need to change their lives.
What makes BRAC unique
Data-driven innovation
BRAC continuously innovates, tests, and strengthens its solutions to maximize its effectiveness.
Community engagement
BRAC develops solutions in partnership with communities, building trust, and making it a priority to meet local needs.
A holistic approach
Poverty is complex and multifaceted, and it demands holistic solutions. BRAC’s programs are designed to address poverty’s many dimensions.
Sustainable solutions
BRAC takes a business approach to ending poverty, using social enterprise models to recover costs and accelerate impact at scale.
Through its visionary moves, BRAC has made a huge contribution to social change in Bangladesh and abroad."
The story of BRAC
In the aftermath of a brutal war for independence and a devastating cyclone that ravaged his home country of Bangladesh, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, an executive working at a multinational oil company, was compelled to do something to help. He founded BRAC, which began as a small relief effort in 1972. Sir Fazle left his job as the organization took shape, and he never looked back. For nearly 50 years, BRAC evolved under Sir Fazle’s leadership and vision, changing countless lives in his home country and around the world. Today, BRAC’s programs in education, health care, youth empowerment, financial inclusion, agriculture, and more reach 100 million people across Asia and Africa.
About BRAC USA
BRAC USA is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit that strengthens BRAC's impact by raising awareness and mobilizing resources to support its programs.
Our values
Integrity
We approach our work with honesty and integrity.
Innovation
We innovate and iterate to improve our impact.
Inclusion
We foster inclusion to reach those who need it most.
Effectiveness
We strive for effectiveness to better serve people in poverty.
Our work in action
One man’s vision changed millions of lives
Explore the life and legacy of BRAC founder, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, whose vision and leadership has guided our work for nearly 50 years.
FAQs
What is the meaning of BRAC?
Originally known as Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, BRAC has since evolved beyond its initial focus and the acronym now stands for its broader mission to empower people and communities in situations of poverty, illiteracy, disease, and social injustice.
What work does BRAC do?
BRAC works across diverse sectors including education, healthcare, social and economic development, and more. We strive to create opportunities for the marginalized to uplift themselves from poverty, focusing on women and children as the primary agents of change. Learn more about our work.
Why was BRAC USA established?
BRAC USA was founded to amplify the impact of BRAC, the global organization, in addressing poverty and championing sustainable development. It serves as both a fundraising and awareness-building entity in the United States for BRAC's work around the globe.
What kind of projects does BRAC USA fund?
BRAC USA funds projects encompassing education, health, social and economic development, and disaster preparedness, ensuring impactful allocation of resources towards the upliftment of marginalized communities.
Are there any collaborations between BRAC USA and other organizations?
Yes, BRAC USA frequently collaborates with governments, fellow NGOs, and private sector entities to enhance the reach and efficiency of its programs and initiatives. Learn more about our partnerships.
What measures does BRAC USA take to ensure the efficiency of its programs?
BRAC USA is committed to evidence-based interventions. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of its programs based on research and feedback ensures they remain relevant and effective.