Who We Are
The Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (Belize Fund) is a private conservation trust fund dedicated to supporting and financing scientific, conservation, and climate change adaptation activities for Belize’s marine resources. Created as a sustainable financing mechanism for marine conservation, the Belize Fund manages the conservation payments from the Belize Blue Bonds to fund projects aligned with Belize's marine conservation priorities and to allocate funding to the Government of Belize to achieve its conservation commitments. In partnership with the Government, the Belize Fund works to ensure long-term sustainable financing for a resilient and vibrant blue economy for the country and people.
How We Started
In 2021, the Government of Belize and The Nature Conservancy entered a landmark agreement known as the Belize Blue Bonds for Ocean Conservation, a historic debt-for-nature swap designed to strengthen ocean conservation while improving national debt sustainability. Through this arrangement, approximately BZ$360 million will be mobilized over 20 years to support conservation efforts in Belize.
The Belize Fund was established on 8 March 2022 as the sustainable financing mechanism under this agreement to manage the conservation payments disburse grants for projects focused on Belize’s coastal and marine resources.
Our Strategic Focus (2024–2027)
The Belize Fund’s first Strategic Plan, developed collaboratively with national stakeholders and aligned with global CTF standards, is guided by four core pillars:
- Strengthen Institutional Capacity – Build a world-class team, modern systems, and strong governance.
- Expand Funding Opportunities – Mobilize new resources beyond the Blue Bonds.
- Implement Effective Grant-Making – Support impactful, accessible conservation, fisheries, climate resilience, and blue innovation projects.
- Build Strategic Partnerships – Collaborate nationally and internationally to enhance impact.
Progress is monitored through our Monitoring & Evaluation Framework, ensuring transparency, accountability, and adaptive management.
Our Governance
The Fund is overseen by an independent Board of nine members, with a non-government majority, representing key stakeholders in Belize’s blue space and the Government of Belize. Our structure supports strong fiduciary governance and ensures resources are invested strategically for lasting impact.
Why It Matters
Belize’s ocean supports livelihoods, protects coastlines, sustains tourism and fisheries, and holds globally significant biodiversity. As climate pressures grow, sustainable financing is essential to safeguard these resources for future generations. By investing today, we help ensure that Belize’s marine ecosystems, communities, and economy remain resilient, productive, and thriving.