Join Her Ocean Accelerator 2026–2027!
El Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund), in partnership with New Ventures, is announcing the call for applications for the Her Ocean Accelerator 2026–2027, a regional acceleration programme designed to support women-led businesses that contribute to the conservation, resilience and sustainable use of the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR).
The call is open to women-led businesses in the early stages of growth and scaling up, which demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the MAR and the communities that depend on this ecosystem.
The Her Ocean Accelerator Programme, co-implemented by MAR Fund and New Ventures, is a six-month regional programme that strengthens and scales up businesses led by women with an impact on the Mesoamerican Reef.
Those selected will have access to:
- Personalised mentoring
- Structured acceleration methodology with customised work plan.
- Business and climate change training
- Peer learning and regional and international networking
- Access to catalytic non-repayable financine
- Regional in-person meetings (kick-off and close)
Eligibility criteria:
- Founded and/or led by women (with an active strategic role)
- Located in Quintana Roo (Mexico), Belize, Guatemala or Honduras
- Established operations with recurring clients
- Consolidated team with defined and complementary roles
- Legally constituted entity
- Demonstrated positive environmental impact
- Willingness to adapt and strengthen the business model with external support
The application process consists of two steps. The first is a form to be completed before 15 May, after which candidates will be contacted to continue to the second stage.
Consult the terms of reference and the registration form below
Apply from 20 April to 31 May 2026 and be part of this initiative that promotes female leadership and the conservation of the Mesoamerican Reef!
MAR Leadership at 15: Strengthening MAR Leaders through Collaboration and Innovation
Photos: Sureste Sostenible
Sureste Sostenible successfully executed the project “MAR Leadership at 15: Strengthening MAR Leaders through Collaboration and Innovation” between April 1, 2025, and February 15, 2026, consolidating 15 years of regional leadership development and strengthening collaboration across the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) region. Through strategic coordination, programmatic design, and effective resource management, Sureste Sostenible reinforced the MAR Leadership alum network by deepening collaboration, enhancing knowledge exchange, and catalyzing innovation.
A central milestone of the project was the 15th Anniversary Event, held in Cancún from October 20–22, 2025. The convening brought together 51 participants, including 41 alums representing 11 cohorts from Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. The diversity of generations, sectors, and nationalities created a dynamic space for intergenerational learning, peer exchange, and strategic reflection. Over three days, participants engaged in institutional retrospection, leadership development workshops, innovation panels, and structured networking sessions designed to foster trust-based collaboration and future joint action.
One of the project’s most significant achievements was the intentional creation of a collaborative space where alumni connected with scientists, technologists, conservation practitioners, and institutional leaders to foster technological and social innovation. During the session “Towards 2030: MAR Leadership and the 30×30 Agenda,” participants worked in cross-country groups to analyze three strategic pillars: equitable governance and the rights of local communities, sustainable and innovative financing models, and ecological connectivity and landscape restoration. This participatory dynamic enabled leaders to move beyond reflection toward actionable contributions that strengthen conservation management from a territorial, inclusive, and long-term perspective.
Panel participants “MAR Leadership: A Story of Impact”: Vicente Ferreyra, María José Gonzalez, Lorenzo Rosenzweig, and Maria Eugenia Arreola
Under the governance pillar, participants identified mechanisms to enhance effective participation of local and Indigenous communities, including prior consultation processes, co-management schemes, recognition of community norms, integration of traditional ecological knowledge, and the application of social and environmental safeguards aligned with international reference frameworks. In the financing discussions, alumni explored blended finance models, public-private partnerships, conservation funds, payments for ecosystem services, carbon credits, and community-based productive initiatives linked to sustainable tourism. Within the ecological connectivity theme, strategies were proposed to integrate marine and terrestrial conservation through watershed and landscape approaches, strengthen biological and cultural corridors, restore degraded areas, and articulate protected areas and community territories more effectively.
Complementing this strategic workshop, the panel on Technology and Innovation for MAR Conservation further expanded the innovation lens by showcasing applied tools, including coral reef monitoring technologies, transboundary species tracking, and private-sector-driven solutions to reduce single-use plastics. By connecting science, technology, governance, and market-based solutions, the project strengthened the alumni network’s capacity to drive cross-sector innovation and develop practical pathways for reef conservation and restoration.
The event generated more than 94 new alliances and collaborative connections across five thematic areas: marine conservation and reef restoration, sustainable tourism, environmental education and community development, institutional strengthening, and cross-border initiatives. These alliances emerged through structured networking, thematic dialogue, territorial mapping exercises, and informal exchanges. The design intentionally combined strategic dialogue with personal leadership reflection, creating the conditions for meaningful, trust-based partnerships.
Participant feedback confirmed the effectiveness of the convening, reflecting high satisfaction regarding agenda relevance, facilitation quality, and the value of peer exchange. Storytelling, communication strategy sessions, and the “Towards 2030” workshop were particularly highlighted as transformative in aligning individual leadership trajectories with long-term regional conservation goals.
Beyond the event itself, the project has already catalyzed follow-up collaboration. A concrete example is the emerging partnership to co-design the Mesoamerican Reef Local Leaders Summit, which aims to engage mayors and coastal authorities across the four MAR countries. This initiative seeks to translate environmental commitments into practical local governance action and scale successful solutions regionally.
Overall, through the project’s effective execution, Sureste Sostenible strengthened the MAR Leadership alumni network as a vibrant regional community of practice. The initiative reinforced cross-border collaboration, fostered technological and social innovation, elevated alumni as regional ambassadors, and positioned the network to continue driving conservation impact, policy influence, and sustainable economic solutions for the long-term health of the Mesoamerican Reef and the communities that depend on it.
Growing Future Ocean Guardians: Youth Leadership and Community Action Strengthen Conservation in Northern Belize
Photos: Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development
Author: Mr. Samuel Barrett
In the coastal village of Sarteneja in Northern Belize, a new generation of conservation leaders is emerging. Through hands-on education, community engagement, and sustainable tourism, the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) is strengthening the protection of the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS) while empowering local youth and communities to become long-term stewards of their natural resources.
Supported through the project “Addressing specific recommendations for the effective management of Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary,” SACD implemented a series of initiatives designed to reinforce protected area governance, engage stakeholders, and improve financial sustainability for conservation efforts.
One of the project’s most inspiring outcomes was the launch of the Junior Mangrove Guardians (JMG), a youth conservation program designed to connect students with the ecosystems and species that define Belize’s northern seascape. Twelve students from Sarteneja joined the inaugural cohort, participating in monthly learning sessions led by conservation organizations, researchers, and government agencies.
Students explored topics such as manatee conservation, shark ecology, mangrove ecosystems, and marine protected areas, learning directly from national conservation experts. Classroom lessons were complemented by experiential field activities that allowed participants to observe wildlife and understand how conservation efforts function in practice.
A Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) evaluation conducted before and after the program demonstrated significant improvements across all indicators. Knowledge scores increased from 73% to 83%, attitudes toward conservation rose to nearly 98%, and reported conservation practices increased from 67% to more than 93%. These results highlight the strong potential of youth-focused education programs to build long-term environmental stewardship in coastal communities.
The project also strengthened governance and stakeholder collaboration within CBWS. Regular meetings of the Corozal Bay Advisory Committee (CBAC) and SACD’s Board of Directors helped maintain transparent decision-making and active participation from fishers, community leaders, and conservation partners.
At the same time, SACD expanded its innovative conservation financing approach through Corozal Bay EcoAdventures (CBEA), hosting five international student expeditions and creating employment opportunities for local residents and supporting ongoing conservation work.
These combined efforts contributed to measurable improvements in protected area management. The Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE), developed internally, for CBWS increased from 89.3% to 91.8%, reflecting progress in community engagement, management planning, and financial sustainability.
By strengthening governance, empowering youth, and creating sustainable financing mechanisms, SACD is helping ensure that the ecosystems of Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary remain protected for generations to come.
In-Person Training for Post-Storm Reef Response Coordinating Committees in Belize
MAR Fund’s Reef Rescue Initiative convened the In-Person Training for Post-Storm Reef Response Coordinating Committees in Belize on March 11, strengthening coordination, preparedness, and decision-making in the face of increasing storm impacts on coral reef ecosystems. The training convened members of three Reef Response Coordinating Committees from Hol Chan, Turneffe Atoll, South Water Caye and Glover’s Reef. The workshop provided a collaborative space to deepen participants’ technical knowledge while reinforcing the structures and processes that underpin effective reef response.
A total of 11 in-person participants attended, representing the Belize Fisheries Department, Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association, Wildlife Conservation Society, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Through a series of presentations delivered by MAR Fund and The Nature Conservancy, participants were introduced to the updated Response Protocol for the Rescue of Coral Reefs Affected by Hurricanes. This strengthened their understanding of the procedures and tools required to support timely and well-informed action following storm events. The sessions also highlighted financial instruments and mechanisms available across the Mesoamerican Reef region, helping participants better understand how to access and mobilize resources when they are most needed.
A key component of the training was its practical focus. Participants worked through a hands-on exercise to apply the concepts discussed, developing funding proposals for post-storm reef response activities and advancing the refinement of site-specific response plans. This approach ensured that knowledge gained during the workshop could be directly translated into actionable steps within their respective management areas.
The training fostered meaningful dialogue and strengthened relationships among institutions responsible for reef management and conservation in Belize. The exchange of experiences and perspectives led to several important agreements aimed at improving coordination and streamlining decision-making processes. These outcomes underscore the value of continued collaboration and highlight the collective commitment to enhancing reef response governance in the country.
As climate-related threats continue to intensify, initiatives such as this training play a critical role in ensuring that Belize’s reef response committees are equipped not only with the right tools and knowledge, but also with the coordination and confidence needed to respond effectively. The workshop represents an important step forward in safeguarding the resilience of Belize’s coral reefs and the communities that depend on them.
Photos: André Herrera
Phase III in action: strengthening coastal-marine conservation and community well-being in Guatemala and Belize
Photo: MAR Fund
Between December 8 and 16, a technical mission of the project “Protection of Maritime Resources in Central America III” (Phase III) confirmed tangible progress in coastal-marine conservation, as well as the strengthening of local capacities in Guatemala and Belize. The visit included the participation of KfW Development Bank and MAR Fund staff, who held exchanges with seven beneficiary organizations and visited the Cerro San Gil Springs Reserve in Guatemala and the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve in Belize.
Phase III is financed by the Federal Republic of Germany through KfW. Its objective is the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in and between selected coastal marine protected areas of the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR). To achieve this goal, the project promotes actions aimed at improving management and conservation conditions of natural resources in these areas, supports sustainable use measures with the participation of local communities, and strengthens cooperation among key stakeholders involved in the conservation of the MAR’s biodiversity.
Guatemala: strengthening the management of protected areas with community participation
In the department of Izabal, Phase III drives a more integrated and strategic management of coastal-marine protected areas, strengthening inter-institutional coordination and community participation. The reactivation of the Protected Areas Co-managers Table is consolidated as a key space for joint decision-making and regional planning.
This progress was highlighted during the exchange with the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP in Spanish) for the Northeast region, during which it was emphasized how the approved project for CONAP will complement the actions implemented by the Foundation for Eco-development and Conservation (FUNDAECO in Spanish) and Defensores de la Naturaleza Foundation (FDN in Spanish).
In the Cerro San Gil Springs Reserve, FUNDAECO is strengthening area management and community participation. Biological and fisheries monitoring at four sites with potential to become Fish Replenishment Zones (FRZ), along with support for the communities of El Castañal, El Mirador, and El Cedro to protect 500 hectares of forest and 2.9 marine hectares, place these communities as the central axis of resource management. The intention is to sign conservation agreements to formalize community commitment and FUNDAECO’s support.
The sustainable development approach is also beginning to translate into economic benefits. Based on a socioeconomic diagnosis, five productive projects were prioritized that will directly benefit approximately 286 people. Progress in tourism planning at strategic sites such as Ensenada Verde, Casa de la Bahía, and Las Escobas lays the foundation for improving service quality and strengthening the financial sustainability of the protected area.
The scope of FUNDAECO’s work expands with actions to be implemented in the Río Sarstún Multiple Use Area, the Punta de Manabique Wildlife Refuge, and Cayman Crown No-Take Zone. These interventions will contribute to the conservation of 113,233 hectares that include reef, mangrove, and seagrass ecosystems, integrating community participation into ecosystem protection.
At the Bocas del Polochic Wildlife Refuge, FDN’s actions are strengthening both institutional and community response to environmental pressures. The reactivation of the Lake Izabal technical-scientific table, along with improved control and surveillance measures through interinstitutional patrols and the use of drones, reinforces the protection of the protected area. These efforts are complemented by concrete restoration and fire prevention actions, including the activation of a 10-member forest firefighting brigade and the strengthening of a forest nursery with 15,000 plants.
The social impact is reflected in the strengthening of community organizations of fishers and farmers—artisanal fishers from Bocas del Polochic and Guaritas, and farmers from Bocas del Polochic—who have enhanced capacities to participate in forest restoration and improve their livelihoods. Notable support includes the acquisition of a motorized cargo tricycle, managed by the Women’s Committee of the Guaritas community, to facilitate the transport and marketing of fishery products, as well as a dugout canoe (cayuco) for transporting plants and equipment for forest restoration activities along the Polochic River. Furthermore, the reactivation of the Co-managers Table enabled the training of 115 park rangers from Izabal in control and surveillance, establishing a joint roadmap toward 2026.
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- Visit to a potential fisheries recovery area in Bahía Santo Tomás, Izabal, Guatemala
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- Meeting in Ensenada Verde, Cerro San Gil Spring Protection Reserve, Izabal, Guatemala.
Belize: experiences that strengthen marine conservation in the SAM
In Belize, the projects supported under Phase III are comprehensively strengthening the management of marine protected areas within the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR), combining effective control, scientific monitoring, and community engagement.
At the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, the work of the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE) has improved the protection of reefs, commercially important species, and fish spawning aggregation sites by reinforcing control and surveillance, and monitoring and research programs. The identification of 12 sites for the installation of demarcation buoys, along with improvements to operational infrastructure at Hunting Caye—including a solar power system that generates 42.5 kWh and a wastewater treatment system—ensures a permanent and more efficient presence within the protected area.
Community impact stands out as one of the most significant results. The training of four community researchers as PADI certified divers, along with the addition of their own diving instructor, has expanded local capacities for marine monitoring. During the visit, community members shared how their participation in these initiatives—together with the development of sustainable livelihoods such as seaweed soap production and fly fishing, is generating income directly linked to conservation.
At the Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, the CAMP BLUE project, implemented by the Southern Environmental Association (SEA), seeks to improve the management effectiveness of the protected area. The rehabilitation of the pier, the improvements to the field station infrastructure at Little Water Caye, and outreach efforts focused on raising awareness among fishers about the importance of the marine reserve and its ecosystems are strengthening both operations and the relationships with user communities. From a technical standpoint, the project has so far conducted six monitoring activities at fish spawning aggregation sites, five fishery landing monitoring exercises, three commercially important species assessments, and one coral reef health survey, generating key information that supports evidence-based management decisions.
The Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve is implementing some of the most significant innovations in control and surveillance. Thanks to equipment acquired by the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA)—including boats, radar, a drone, and infrared cameras—a continuous 24/7 monitoring system has been established, enabling a timely response to illegal fishing. These enhanced capacities are reflected in 771 effective patrols and in a team of seven better-prepared rangers, whose certifications and specialized training that strengthen the institutional presence within the protected area.
At the same time, systematic monitoring of key species—conch, lobster, and commercially important fish—along with boat-to-boat environmental education activities, contribute to improving compliance with fishing regulations and promoting sustainable practices among the area users
Finally, the Belize Audubon Society (BAS) presented the actions it will implement at the Half Moon Caye and Blue Hole Natural Monuments, aimed at strengthening management, enforcement, monitoring, and environmental education, laying the groundwork for greater local participation in the conservation of these high ecological value ecosystems.
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- TASA vessel for education and monitoring, Belize.
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- Meeting with community members at TIDE offices, Belize.
Regional cooperation with visible impacts
The Phase III technical mission demonstrated that conservation and sustainable use efforts are generating a positive impact on the ground, directly aligning with the Seas and Biodiversity strategic line of the Regional Environmental Framework Strategy (ERAM) of the Central American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD). By strengthening the management of 113,233 hectares of critical ecosystems in Guatemala and modernizing control and surveillance actions across 287,729 hectares in Belize through the use of radars and drones, these subprojects contribute to the regional goal of preserving the ecological integrity of the MAR.
Likewise, the participation of communities in scientific monitoring and the development of sustainable livelihoods—such as seaweed-based soap production and fly-fishing tourism—demonstrate a participatory governance model that promotes community resilience and the sustainability of fisheries resources. These results reaffirm the commitment of German Cooperation and KfW, MAR Fund and the 31 protected areas benefiting from the project, to continue promoting—through coordinated efforts—healthy ecosystems, regenerative economies, and resilient communities across the MAR.
Photos: MAR Fund
ECOLENS Summit in Belize, Celebrating Regional Partnerships and MAR Fund’s 20th Anniversary
The Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund) continued celebrating its 20th anniversary during the cocktail party held after the ECOLENS Summit: Focusing on People and Nature, at the Belize City Civic Center on March 5, 2026. The summit brought together a diverse coalition of leaders and practitioners working to safeguard Belize’s natural heritage, creating a space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration around shared environmental priorities.
Jointly hosted by the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (BFSF) , the summit convened representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, international partners, community groups, and conservation initiatives. Through keynote talks, technical panels, and interactive discussions, the event explored the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of conservation—from strengthening protected areas and enforcement to advancing innovative financing for nature.
Within this collaborative setting, MAR Fund contributed a regional perspective on conservation finance and cross-border cooperation to protect the Mesoamerican Reef, a vital source of livelihoods and biodiversity for the region. María José González, Executive Director of MAR Fund, joined regional leaders in the panel “Unlocking Sustainable Financing for Marine Protected Areas.” Moderated by Sabreena Daly of Great Belize Media, the discussion brought together Osmany Salas (WWF Mesoamerica), Alana Godoy (The Nature Conservancy), and Fabian Kyne (Caribbean Biodiversity Fund). The panelists explored how innovative financial tools and regional cooperation can help secure resilient marine protected areas while supporting the coastal communities that depend on them.
The day concluded with a closing cocktail celebrating MAR Fund’s two decades of regional cooperation and strategic alliances with founding member Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (BFSF), alongside the many partners, friends, and allies who have contributed to advancing conservation across the region. The gathering offered an opportunity to reflect on shared achievements while reaffirming a collective commitment to the long-term protection of the Mesoamerican Reef.
Belize is home to one of the most emblematic sections of the Mesoamerican Reef, and the leadership represented in this room has been instrumental in positioning both the country and the region as an international reference in marine conservation. Our work in Belize has been made possible through strong collaboration.
– Yvonne Ramírez, President of MAR Fund’s Board of Directors
The cocktail also included a tribute to individuals whose work has shaped the conservation history of the Mesoamerican Reef. Beverly Wade, CEO of Belize’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, was also honored for her decades of public service and her leadership in advancing marine policy, strengthening marine reserves, and promoting innovative financing mechanisms for sustainable ocean management. Marine scientist Melanie McField was also recognized for her pioneering leadership in reef science and for spearheading the world’s first coral reef “report card,” an initiative that has helped guide conservation action across the region for nearly two decades. Together, the recognitions highlighted the power of science, policy, and collaboration in safeguarding the future of the reef.
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- Alicia Eck on behalf of Beverly Wade, together with María José González.
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- Melanie McField and Yvonne Ramírez
As part of its anniversary year, MAR Fund also announced the completion of a commemorative book to be launched later this year. The publication brings together the stories, partnerships, and shared achievements that have shaped two decades of conservation across the Mesoamerican Reef region, serving as both a reflection on the journey so far and an invitation to continue building the reef’s future together.
As MAR Fund marks twenty years of regional impact, it affirms its commitment to advancing climate action, promoting sustainable fisheries, and supporting the transition toward a regenerative blue economy—one that values inclusion, innovation, and women’s leadership as key drivers of resilience.
Photos: Eliceo Cobb/MAR Fund
Women Entrepreneurs of the Mesoamerican Reef Strengthen Triple‑Impact Initiatives
Photos: MAR Fund
On December 4 and 5, 2025, MAR Fund brought together twelve women entrepreneurs from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico in Guatemala City for a regional exchange to strengthen initiatives with a triple‑impact focus: social, environmental, and economic. The activity was part of the Blue and Regenerative Economy Program, through its Women for the MAR initiative, which seeks to promote the leadership and economic autonomy of women in the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR) through the development of sustainable enterprises.
MAR Fund, Alterna, New Ventures, and Fempower LATAM strengthened key aspects of each project through plenary sessions and workshops on strategic narratives, application of social and environmental safeguards, design of stronger business models, and analytical tools that connect each initiative with the challenges and opportunities of the MAR.
The lecture by Mariana Madero, Director of MAR+Invest at New Ventures Mexico, allowed participants to deepen their understanding of current trends in impact entrepreneurship and the perspective of investors seeking solutions aligned with environmental regeneration.
The use of collaborative methodologies and innovative tools, including artificial intelligence applications and social media trends, enabled the 12 entrepreneurs to refine their business models, strengthen the communication of their proposals, and project their impact, integrating local knowledge, growth vision, and environmental commitment toward a truly regenerative economy. In addition to the tools and training spaces, the meeting created a valuable moment to recognize the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the MAR beyond gender issues: operating in territories with structural limitations, accessing fair financing, balancing community and family responsibilities, and sustaining initiatives that seek to protect ecosystems on which their livelihoods depend.
Sharing these experiences allowed participants to recognize common points, as well as the need for networks and support systems. This exchange strengthened collective confidence and consolidated a space where collaboration becomes a key strategy to continue moving forward.
“To know what each of the women is doing in our communities, to be able to share experiences and learn from other experiences in other communities similar to ours… how to work and what we are doing to strengthen the independence of women, which has been one of the battles we have been achieving… I felt proud to be able to share with other women who are fighting for our community, for women to raise our voices and for our work as women to be recognized.” — Dayani Rodríguez, Pescadería “La Bendición.”
The meeting concluded with the presentation of the projects in a simulated Investor Tank, before representatives of MAR Fund, Alterna, and New Ventures, who offered feedback aimed at sustainability, viability, and scalability of each enterprise. Three proposals with high potential were selected to receive seed capital as an initial boost to continue developing.
The winning proposals were:
- Cocina Lucy (Punta Allen, Mexico): Gastronomic enterprise with consolidated operation, coherent value proposition, and links to responsible tourism and citizen science in collaboration with the local fishing cooperative.
- Pescadería La Bendición (Omoa, Honduras): Women‑led initiative with clear progress in organization and formalization within the fisheries value chain, with potential to strengthen its commercial and community model.
- Mujeres BioFaunTásticas (Laguna Guerrero and Raudales, Mexico): Social project under structuring, with a solid educational narrative and capacity to evolve into a triple‑impact model linked to environmental and community activities.
The participating entrepreneurs concluded the meeting with greater clarity to design proposals that integrate impact and profitability, as well as more confidence to communicate with investors, present their business models, and access regional support and financing networks.
This meeting was made possible thanks to the support of The Summit Foundation, whose funding allowed the entrepreneurs to gather and create a space for learning, collaboration, and regional strengthening.
As a next step, MAR Fund will continue seeking spaces for these initiatives to keep growing, generating alliances, and contributing to the strengthening of an economy focused on responsible practices, innovation, and results that provide environmental stability and real opportunities for women in the MAR.
Photos: Liz Herrera and Mariana Borja – MAR Fund
Nine Selected Projects Will Drive Local Solutions for Conservation in the MAR
Photo: Raíces Marinas
The Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund), in collaboration with the German Cooperation through KfW, the French Global Environment Facility (FFEM), the Paul M. Angell Foundation, and the Central American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD), is proud to announce the nine winning projects of the 17th Call for Proposals under the Small Grants Program, through its two funding windows: the Traditional Window and the Reef Rescue Initiative.
These projects were selected for their strong potential to conserve the ecosystem functions of the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR) and to strengthen its resilience. The initiatives will be implemented in Mexico, Belize, and Honduras, addressing critical challenges to the well-being of coastal communities and the health of the marine ecosystem.
The selection process evaluated technical merit, environmental and social impact, financial viability, and the experience of the proposing organizations. The winners include non-governmental and academic institutions, with active participation from communities, women’s groups, and key government stakeholders. All organizations will apply MAR Fund’s Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) during project implementation.
The winning projects focus on these strategic themes:
- Sustainable ventures that deliver environmental and social benefits, including women-led initiatives
- Strengthening the resilience of protected areas and coastal communities against climate change
- Improved wastewater and solid waste management, essential for reef protection
- Conservation of fish spawning aggregations, vital for regional fisheries sustainability
- Coral reef restoration, repopulation, and rehabilitation techniques, grounded in science and community participation
“MAR Fund celebrates the passion and creativity of all the selected organizations. We are excited to see new proposals taking shape, as well as to continue supporting partners who have worked with us in previous calls. The diversity of the winning projects reinforces our comprehensive approach to MAR conservation. Each project adds up, and together we move towards a more resilient, healthy, and sustainable reef.” — Elisa Blanda, Small Grants Program Officer
MAR Fund congratulates all participating organizations and winners for their commitment and dedication to the MAR. Their work demonstrates how local action, driven by science, innovation, inclusion, and community participation, can transform the future of marine and coastal ecosystems.
We are pleased to share the details of the nine winning projects from this call for proposals. (Click to view full-size):
(Photos courtesy of the winning organizations, authorized for publication).
MAR Fund participates in the Salzburg Global Seminar on Building Resilient Communities
MAR Fund recently participated in the Salzburg Global Seminar “Building Resilient Communities: Insurance Solutions for Vulnerable Individuals and Communities,” supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF).
Held at the historic Schloss Leopoldskron in Salzburg, Austria, the event brought together international experts, organizations, and institutions advancing innovative insurance frameworks to enhance community resilience.
This seminar offered a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge, connect with inspiring professionals, and strengthen global partnerships that promote insurance as a tool to accelerate recovery and reduce economic impacts in vulnerable regions. Amid the growing challenges of climate change, participants explored new approaches to investment and insurance mechanisms that strengthen resilience across households, communities, and ecosystems.
Representing MAR Fund, Claudia Ruiz, Coordinator of the Reef Rescue Initiative, shared our organization’s experience in developing reef insurance solutions that protect coral ecosystems and sustain the livelihoods of the communities that depend on them.
I’m very proud to be part of the Salzburg Global program and to represent MAR Fund in such an inspiring workshop. It was an incredible experience to meet and share with amazing professionals deeply committed to conservation, resilience, and insurance. I’m truly grateful to Salzburg Global and MAR Fund for this wonderful opportunity. – Claudia Ruiz.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Salzburg Global Seminar and RWJF for fostering this meaningful exchange and collaboration.
Photos Courtesy of: Salzburg Global
Innovative Financing for Coral Reef Protection, Repair, and Restoration in San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, Colombia
Photo: Juan Carlos Huitrón
In the face of climate change, Fondo Acción has successfully developed a parametric insurance mechanism for coral reefs in the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina, Colombia. This milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort involving Fondo Acción, the Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund), Willis Towers Watson (WTW), and the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), with funding support from the Government of Canada, as part of the project Innovative Risk Financing Approaches to Enhance Ecosystem Resilience along the Caribbean’s Coastlines.
“This pioneering insurance mechanism in Colombia, linking science, finance, and community engagement, shows how innovative finance can help safeguard nature while strengthening the resilience of the most vulnerable communities.” Natalia Arango, Executive Director of Fondo Acción.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the Archipelago is better prepared, financially, institutionally, and technically, to protect and restore its coral reefs in the face of climate change.
“It is a privilege to be part of this strategic partnership, delivering an innovative solution that provides coverage for biodiversity in ways traditional indemnity insurance cannot—By developing a parametric structure that helps preserve the ecosystem, particularly the coral reefs that sustain the island’s life, tourism, and economy”- Juanita Blanco, ART WTW Director.
It also marks a major achievement in scaling the MAR Insurance Programme to new geographies where coral reef protection and post-disaster restoration are critical to the resilience of coastal marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
“We are proud to be part of this innovative initiative in Colombia. Being able to share and transfer our experience has strengthened our collaboration with Fondo Acción, WTW, ORRAA, and AXA, allowing us to expand our work and grow the network of partners working together to boost the resilience of coral reefs and the coastal communities that depend on them”. María José González. Executive Director of MAR Fund.
The project established the technical and human capacity foundations for launching this pioneering reef insurance programme in the Archipelago. It also successfully built a Reef Emergency Response Network, ensuring that local communities are equipped with both the skills and resources to respond to reef damage following extreme weather events.
To guide response efforts, a Reef Response Coordination Committee was established within the Archipelago. In addition, 45 local residents were trained and certified in coral reef repair techniques to carry out emergency post-hurricane interventions. Four of them (2 men and 2 women) obtained advanced certification as reef response trainers, enabling them to further build local capacity and ensure long-term knowledge transfer within their communities.
A streamlined fund distribution mechanism was also developed to ensure rapid disbursement of insurance pay-outs, allowing for efficient and timely deployment of emergency reef response actions.
The success of this initiative was the result of strong coordination and leadership by the local environmental authority, Corporación para el Desarrollo Sostenible del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina (CORALINA), with technical support from MAR Fund and WTW, and direct funding from ORRAA, made possible through the financial contribution of the Government of Canada via Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
“ORRAA’s support of Fondo Acción, MAR Fund and WTW in San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina provides a prime example of how innovative financing – like reef insurance – can integrate natural assets into disaster risk management. The importance of valuing reefs and mangroves as protective infrastructure cannot be underestimated, helping to safeguard nature whilst building the resilience of coastal communities on the frontlines of climate risk.” Chip Cunliffe. Senior Director, Innovation and Pipeline Development.
As a result of this collaborative effort, Fondo Acción, in partnership with CORALINA and a coalition of key actors—including AXA COLPATRIA and AXA Climate—successfully placed the first reef insurance policy for the Archipelago, which came into effect in June 2025, with funding support from the Blue Action Fund.
“It’s inspiring to see the world finally recognizing the true value of nature, and this coral reef insurance program perfectly embodies that shift. We’re proud to work alongside our partners to make this protection possible. But beyond the product itself, what truly matters is the partnership behind it. Because when genuine collaboration happens, innovative coverage like this becomes a reality, protecting coral reefs that are vital to marine ecosystems and to the livelihoods of coastal communities facing climate change.” Ariana Ospino, Business Developer Latam, AXA Climate.
Photo: Pablo Devis
About Fondo Acción is a private Colombian fund with 25 years of experience investing in sustainable initiatives that protect nature and promote the well-being of children in Colombia. Its purpose is to enable actions that make it possible to care for the environment and ensure that boys and girls grow up in healthy, safe, and nurturing surroundings.
About MAR Fund
MAR Fund is a regional environmental fund that implements the Reef Rescue Initiative (RRI), whose main objective is to support the long-term ecological and economic viability of the Mesoamerican Reef. This is achieved through capacity building, strategic alliances, risk management instruments, and innovative financial mechanisms. Through the RRI, specifically the MAR Insurance Programme, MAR Fund collaborates with local conservation organizations and government agencies at each insured reef site to strengthen their capacity to implement reef response plans in the aftermath of hurricanes.
About WTW
At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.
Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you.
About ORRAA
The Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) is the only multi-sector collaboration connecting the finance and insurance sectors, governments, multilateral organizations, civil society, and local partners to pioneer finance and insurance products that incentivize investment into coastal and ocean resilience, and through Nature-based Solutions.
The mission, by 2030, is to activate at least USD$500 million of investment to build the resilience of 250 million climate vulnerable coastal people in the Global South.
ORRAA is delivering system-wide change by growing an investable product pipeline and generating the transformative investment instruments, vehicles and policies that contribute to a regenerative and sustainable blue economy. These solutions enable coastal communities and the Ocean to adapt and thrive, creating greater economic, social and cultural resilience.
This project was supported by the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) and undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada through the federal Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Ce projet a été réalisé avec l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada agissant par l’entremise du ministère fédéral de l’Environnement et du Changement climatique.
About AXA Climate
AXA Climate, a subsidiary of the AXA group dedicated to climate change adaptation and transition supports sectors such as agribusiness, industry, finance, and the public sector by offering parametric insurance products, consulting services, over 40 hours of online training, and a suite of digital tools for climate projections.
By leveraging science and data, AXA Climate helps companies and public players to tackle key environmental challenges and enables them to implement concrete adaptation and mitigation strategies tailored to their local contexts and specific needs.