Focus Area
Environmental Conservation
Location
Global
Beneficiaries
Local communities, Indigenous peoples (e.g., Kayapó in Brazil), NGOs, and governments dependent on healthy ecosystems
Safavi's Role
Partner-funded initiative (via Conservation International)
Key Impact
Partially contributed to 81 million hectares protected, 135 protected areas created/expanded, over 60,000 people benefited, 3,000 jobs generated, 500+ globally threatened species protected
Project Overview
The Global Conservation Fund (GCF) was established to address a critical gap in conservation: the lack of sustainable funding and management for protected areas. Through targeted financial and technical support, GCF helps protect forests, coral reefs, and freshwater systems that billions of people depend on for survival. The initiative focuses on building long-term, effective conservation solutions by supporting protected area creation and sustainable financing mechanisms.
Beneficiary Profile
Beneficiaries span 26 countries and include Indigenous communities like the Kayapó in Brazil, whose territories act as vital buffers against deforestation. Other beneficiaries include local governments, conservation NGOs, and residents in biodiversity-rich areas dependent on ecosystem services for clean water, air, food, and sustainable livelihoods.
Safavi's Role
Safavi supported this initiative through strategic funding partnerships with Conservation International. This included contributing to grant-making and enabling capacity-building efforts. GCF’s success was further bolstered by foundational grants, including from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and collaborative efforts with over 40 partner organizations worldwide.
Media
Project Gallery
Photo Credit: Global Conservation Fund
Impact Achieved
Impact Achieved (Outcome)
CI's program impact achieved a protection of 81 million hectares across 135 areas
Created or expanded protected areas in 26 countries
Benefited 60,000+ people and generated over $1 million in local wages
Established 26 conservation endowments totaling $230 million
Supported habitat protection for 500+ globally threatened species
Developed scalable models for conservation finance, helping ensure long-term ecosystem protection
Purpose & Signifigance
Safavi’s support for the Global Conservation Fund aligns with its commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. By funding initiatives that blend scientific insight with practical conservation finance, Safavi helped address urgent biodiversity threats while supporting the socio-economic resilience of vulnerable communities.
Future Outlook
Though the initiative has formally ended as of May 2023, its legacy endures through the 26 conservation endowments and ongoing local management. The models and partnerships developed serve as a foundation for future conservation financing efforts and sustainable development programs globally.
