PRESS RELEASE 07 January 2026

Call from TOHUM Autism Foundation and İŞKUR to companies: Grant Support Applications for the Employment of Individuals with Autism Are Beginning!

TOHUM Autism Foundation, implemented in order to enable people with autism to participate equally and sustainably in working life “Supported Employment Model”It continues to grow. In this regard, İŞKUR’s Grant Support Program for Disabled and Ex-Convicts With the grant provided under the program, a significant opportunity is being offered for companies to employ individuals with autism. Under the Supported Employment project, significant grant support is provided to companies in categories such as employment coaches’ fees, salaries for autistic employees, and workplace setup costs. In projects designed to integrate autistic individuals into the workforce, the TOHUM Otizm Vakfı, with its expertise and guidance, brings the business world together with both social benefits and financial advantages. This important support model also paves the way for more autistic individuals to be permanently employed in the private sector.

The business world and all relevant stakeholders will be able to obtain detailed information about the scope of the project by attending the online briefing meeting to be held on January 9, 2025 at 15:30.

People with autism make change possible in the business world..

Many companies around the world are leveraging the systematic thinking skills, attention to detail, and commitment to routine of individuals with autism to improve productivity and quality in their business processes. TOHUM Autism Foundation To date, Ford Otosan has employed 51 people with autism thanks to its partnerships with companies such as Horoz Lojistik, Eker, GSK, Netlog, Boyner, and Arvato. Additionally, through a grant from İŞKUR, the company aims to reach this model to a wider audience.

Invitation to the Meeting – Take Action for the Participation of Individuals with Autism in the Labor Force

📅 Date: January 9, 2026

🕓 Time: 15:30

🔗 Zoom Link: Click to Join the Meeting 

🔢 Meeting ID: 844 7691 8731

🔒 Password: 046434

What is Autism?

Autism is a complex developmental difference that is present at birth and often becomes apparent within the first three years of life. Individuals with autism may experience difficulties in social communication, limited interests, and repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis and intensive special education have a transformative impact on the lives of individuals with autism.

The Incidence of Autism Is Increasing…

While the diagnosis of autism was made in 1985 for one in 2,500 children, as of 2025, one in 31 children receives the diagnosis. In our country, the number of individuals with autism is estimated at 2.7 million, while the number of people affected by the family environment of these individuals is estimated at 10 million. These striking data indicate that social awareness needs to increase and solution-oriented policies need to be implemented rapidly.

Why is employment important?

Employment for individuals with autism means more than economic independence; it means self-confidence, social inclusion, and quality of life. By focusing on detail and having strengths such as stability and loyalty in repetitive tasks, individuals with autism can make a difference in the business world.

However, successful employment requires structural support such as workplace arrangements tailored to individual needs, the identification of appropriate positions, and coaching support. For employers, this process not only fosters a culture of inclusivity but also increases employee satisfaction and productivity.

TOHUM Employment Studies of the Autism Foundation…

TOHUM The Autism Foundation established the first and only model workplace school in Turkey with a grant from the Istanbul Development Agency in 2010. In 2013, the ’Work and Life Curriculum’ was developed, and in 2014, internship programs were launched.

The Foundation, which has been implementing full-time employment projects since 2018, launched the Employment Department in 2024 specifically designed for the employment of individuals with autism. Through the programs and collaborations developed in this department, the participation of individuals with autism in the workforce is being made permanent.

Supported Employment

Supported employment is an approach developed to increase the participation of individuals with autism in the workplace and ensure their sustainable success in the workplace. Through this model, suitable job niches are identified, support is provided in the company of job coaches, and employers are encouraged to provide an inclusive work environment. Supported employment develops individuals’ skills for independent living while providing employers with a productive and loyal workforce beyond social responsibility.