Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and Local Communities (LCs) manage 30-40% of the planet’s intact ecosystems, often achieving better biodiversity outcomes than state-protected areas. Yet funding is not flowing fast or far enough to them. This event will address challenges IPs & LCs face in accessing vertical funds at various stages of the funding process, offering practical solutions on eligibility, application, and disbursement, with insights from IPs & LCs representatives, donors, and intermediaries.

Speakers

Moderator

Rodrigo Quintana – Associate Director, IP- & LC-led Innovative Finance, TNC

Panelists

Myrna Cunningham – Chair of the Guiding Committee, Pawanka Fund

Leila Saraiva – Shandia Coordinator, Global Alliance of Territorial Communities (TBC)

Johnson Cerda – Vice President of IPLC Engagement and Partnership, Conservation International

Marcio Halla – Director, Territorial Governance Facility, Forest Trends Association

Sarah Wyatt – Senior Biodiversity Specialist, Global Environment Facility (TBC)

Closing Remarks

Joe Walston - Executive Vice President, WCS Global