PRESS RELEASE: (City of Belmopan, March 28, 2025) – The Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (Belize Fund) is proud to announce the approval of eight new projects that support community-led conservation, strengthen marine and coastal ecosystems, and promote sustainable development.

A key highlight is the introduction of a Community Grants window, designed to address barriers that smaller, grassroots groups face in accessing funding. These grants ensure that local knowledge and community-driven solutions are central to protecting Belize’s natural resources.

“We realized that while our process ensures accountability, it wasn’t reaching everyone,” says Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts, Executive Director of the Belize Fund. “To truly create lasting impact in conservation, we needed a more inclusive approach that directly supports communities.”

The approved projects represent diverse focus areas across protection for biodiversity, sustainable fisheries, climate resilience, and blue business innovation:
1. Three Lagoon Sustainability Program (BZ $75,000)
2. Creative Imageries Motion Art Studio (BZ $74,960)
3. Chunox Fishermen Association (BZ $75,000)
4. Shark Fishers Association (BZ $75,000)
5. Sea of Life – Plastic Solutions Academy (BZ $150,000)
6. ECOMAR – Barrier Reef Watch (BZ $139,225)
7. Blue Nutrients Belize Ltd (BZ $149,740)
8. World Wildlife Fund Mesoamerica (BZ $397,375.60)

Beyond funding, the Belize Fund invests in capacity-building through in-person sessions, proposal-writing workshops, and direct support from consultants.

“We don’t just provide funding—we help organizations develop skills to secure and manage resources effectively,” says Josue Oliva, Program Manager. “By meeting people where they are, we ensure they can focus on conservation and sustainable livelihoods.”

“We want to do more than just provide funding for conservation,” says Dr. Cho-Ricketts.” We want to equip people with the tools they need to succeed and create a foundation for long-term impact.”

The Belize Fund is committed to inclusion, innovation, and long-term impact.