June 5th, 2025
A Call to Action from Tohum Autism Foundation and İŞKUR to Companies: Grant Applications for the Employment of Individuals with Autism Now Open!
Tohum Autism Foundation continues to expand its “Supported Employment Model,” developed to ensure the equal and sustainable inclusion of individuals with autism in the workforce. In this context, a valuable opportunity is now available through İŞKUR’s Grant Support Program for Disabled and Formerly Convicted Individuals, offering financial support to companies employing individuals with autism.
The year 2025 has been declared the “Year of Autism” under this program, and projects that support the participation of individuals with autism in working life will be given priority. Within this scope, grants are provided under the Supported Employment Project title for key expenses such as job coach salaries, salaries of employees with autism, and workplace adaptation costs.
Thanks to the guidance and expertise of Tohum Autism Foundation, these employment projects offer the business world both social benefit and financial advantages. This vital support model also paves the way for the permanent inclusion of more individuals with autism in the private sector workforce.
Join the Online Info Session – Learn More About the Project
📅 Date: June 10, 2025
🕓 Time: 16:00
🔗 Zoom Link: [Click to Join the Meeting]
🔢 Meeting ID: 859 4720 3709
🔒 Password: 131213
Individuals with Autism Are Driving Positive Change in the Workforce
Across the globe, many companies are improving efficiency and quality by utilizing the strengths of individuals with autism—such as systematic thinking, attention to detail, and commitment to routines.
To date, Tohum Autism Foundation has enabled the employment of 35 individuals with autism through partnerships with companies such as Eker, GSK, Netlog, Boyner, and Arvato. The Foundation now aims to extend this model to a wider audience with the support of İŞKUR grants.
Take Action – A Call to Employers: Help Individuals with Autism Join the Workforce
What Is Autism?
Autism is a complex developmental difference that is present from birth and usually becomes noticeable within the first three years of life. Individuals with autism may experience difficulties in social communication, have restricted interests, and display repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis and intensive special education have a transformative impact on their lives.
Autism Diagnosis Rates Are Rising
While in 1985 only 1 in 2,500 children was diagnosed with autism, by 2025, the number has risen to 1 in 31 children. In Türkiye, it is estimated that over 2 million individuals have autism, with more than 8 million people affected within their family circles. These striking figures highlight the urgent need for increased public awareness and the rapid implementation of solution-oriented policies.
Why Is Employment So Important?
For individuals with autism, employment goes far beyond financial independence—it brings self-confidence, social inclusion, and improved quality of life. Their strengths, such as attention to detail, reliability in repetitive tasks, and loyalty, can make a real impact in the workplace.
However, successful employment requires structural support, such as adapting the work environment to individual needs, identifying suitable positions, and providing job coach assistance. For employers, this not only promotes an inclusive culture but also increases employee satisfaction and productivity.
Tohum Autism Foundation’s Employment Initiatives
In 2010, with a grant from the Istanbul Development Agency, the Foundation established Türkiye’s first and only model vocational school for individuals with autism. In 2013, it developed a “Work and Life Curriculum,” and in 2014, internship programs were launched.
Since 2018, the Foundation has been running full-time employment projects, and in 2024, it established the Career Center, specifically designed to support the employment of individuals with autism. Through this center’s programs and partnerships, sustainable workforce participation is achieved.
What Is Supported Employment?
Supported employment is a structured approach designed to increase the workforce participation of individuals with autism and ensure their long-term success on the job. The model involves identifying suitable job roles, providing support through job coaches, and encouraging employers to foster inclusive work environments.
While helping individuals build independent living skills, supported employment also provides employers with a reliable and productive workforce—offering value far beyond corporate social responsibility.
