FCAT  is a community-led Ecuadorian NGO conserving the hyper-diverse Chocó rainforests of northwest Ecuador. We are working to train the next generation of women leaders to implement shade grown agroforestry, conduct biodiversity monitoring, and share results with their communities and beyond.  These life-changing opportunities are helping to ‘flip the script’ on the tired, familiar stories of steady deforestation and deeply entrenched machismo. We are seeking $20,000 to provide a full year of salary, training and support to two new women researchers – for well-being of biodiversity, ecosystem, families and communities.

FCAT differs from many conservation programs in that our organization is driven by locally born and raised residents motivated by the legacy they will leave for their children and grandchildren. This initiative fundamentally alters the capacity of women to lead conservation initiatives in the area where they were born and raised. It is a long-term investment toward building a 21st century workforce to secure a more sustainable future, in a place where it matters most.