Ripple Partners With IRC In $1M Commitment For Humanitarian Aid

Ripple, a leading provider of digital asset infrastructure, has announced a strategic partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), one of the world’s most trusted humanitarian organizations.

The collaboration aims to explore the use of Ripple’s cross-border payment solutions and the pending RLUSD stablecoin in delivering vital humanitarian aid to communities affected by crises.

What Does the Ripple and IRC Partnership Bring to the Table?

As part of this collaboration, Ripple has given the IRC a multi-year funding pledge of $1 million. This investment highlights their common goal of utilising blockchain technology in two critical areas: cross-border fund transfers and cash relief initiatives. Specifically, they want to leverage Ripple’s global payments network and open-source solutions built on the XRP Ledger.

The partnership has the potential to significantly transform aid delivery at scale, given Ripple’s established leadership in compliant blockchain payments and the IRC’s extensive experience delivering impactful humanitarian aid across over 40 countries, having disbursed over $70 million in cash and voucher relief.

“Partnering with the International Rescue Committee marks an important milestone in Ripple’s mission to leverage blockchain technology for positive global impact,” said Eric van Miltenburg, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Ripple. 

“We look forward to learning from the IRC’s deep experience in delivering aid on the ground, which will help Ripple support humanitarian efforts at scale. By combining our full suite of payment solutions with the IRC’s expertise, we aim to help vulnerable communities access critical resources quickly, securely, and at scale.”

Blockchain for Humanitarian Aid

David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, highlighted the importance of innovation in responding to humanitarian crises. He stated that the IRC is committed to exploring innovative solutions that help them respond rapidly to communities impacted by humanitarian crises. 

He showed his excitement to partner with Ripple, to explore how their technology, like stablecoins, which can can enhance the speed and efficiency of cash relief, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional banking infrastructure in times of crisis.

Ripple is committed to helping people in need outside of this collaboration. The business has previously assisted other organisations in improving financial inclusion through its Ripple Impact program. 

Ripple’s Efforts in Social Cause

Ripple’s dedication to humanitarian efforts and cross-border payments extends beyond this partnership. Through its Ripple Impact program, the company has previously supported various organizations in enhancing financial inclusion. 

With the UN reporting that 360 million people require aid amid escalating global crises, this collaboration with the IRC aims to explore Ripple’s blockchain-based solutions to improve the speed, security, and accessibility of aid delivery.

In addition, Ripple recently announced a $250,000 contribution to assist in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, helping organizations like World Central Kitchen and Volunteer Florida support affected communities.

This collaboration between Ripple and the IRC underscores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in humanitarian efforts, paving the way for quicker, more efficient aid delivery to those in need.