FOREST ECOPRENEUR PROGRAM

Forest Ecopreneur (2023 – 2030) is a flagship acceleration program under the SAFE Initiative, implemented through a strategic partnership between the Korea Forest Service (KFS) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Spanning across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Bhutan, the program is dedicated to conserving and restoring vulnerable forest ecosystems. Forest Ecopreneur focuses on protecting the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities while providing direct support to forest restoration enterprises to create lasting environmental and economic impacts.

ORGANIZING PARTNERS

United Nations Environment Programme — UNEP

UNEP is the leading global authority that coordinates environmental activities within the United Nations system. It plays a pivotal role in supporting developing countries to implement sound environmental policies and sustainable practices, addressing climate challenges, and fostering resource management for a greener future.

Bridge for Billions

Bridge for Billions is a prominent social enterprise based in Spain, specializing in supporting international organizations to design and manage entrepreneurship and innovation programs that create shared value for all stakeholders. Within the Forest Ecopreneur 2025 framework, Their involvement brings modern startup support systems and digital tools, helping forest ecopreneurs standardize their development pathways according to international standards.

Research Institute for Innovation and Development

The Research Institute for Innovation and Development (IID) is a leading organization dedicated to building and nurturing the social innovation ecosystem for sustainable development in Vietnam. Serving as a strategic “bridge,” IID specializes in mobilizing and optimizing multi-stakeholder resources — spanning from international networks to domestic partners, and from the public sector to the private sector. We are committed to fostering breakthrough innovative solutions that address urgent challenges, creating lasting value for both society and the economy.

MAIN ACTIVITIES

ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM: BRIDGE FOR BILLIONS

At IID, we leverage the digital incubation platform from Bridge for Billions (Spain) to provide a modern and structured learning experience. Under the close guidance of experienced mentors, entrepreneurs will complete 8 intensive modules designed to build a solid foundation for their business:

CHECKPOINT SESSIONS: GROUP MENTORING

To optimize the effectiveness of digital learning, IID organizes bi-weekly Checkpoint sessions. These group mentoring sessions provide a direct interactive space to help enterprises.

INTENSIVE 1-1 PERSONALIZED MENTORING

Beyond group activities, IID emphasizes the unique development of each enterprise through weekly 1-1 private mentoring sessions.

OPENING CEREMONY & DEMO DAY

Every year, the incubation journey at IID is defined by two major milestones where the spirit of innovation and the dedication of enterprises are celebrated. This serves as a “golden opportunity” for active participants to pitch their refined business models directly to a panel of judges and investors, securing prestigious awards and continued support from the program.

TECHNICAL WORKSHOP SESSIONS

Tailored to the practical needs and specific challenges of participating enterprises, our technical seminars are led by industry-leading experts. The program focuses on pivotal topics, ensuring founders not only grasp the theory but also master the execution tools: Sector-Specific Solutions, Market & Finance, Specialized Management,…

FIELD TRIPS & REGIONAL NETWORKING EVENTS

In parallel with our online support, IID prioritizes building tangible connections through on-site field trips and regional networking events. These activities offer invaluable opportunities to create a dedicated space for founders and mentors to meet, exchange insights, and forge strong strategic partnerships.

FOREST ECOPRENEUR 2025

Forest Ecopreneur 2025 builds upon the remarkable success of its 2024 predecessor, continuing its mission to incubate and accelerate enterprises dedicated to forest restoration. As a vital component of the SAFE Initiative (Sustainable Actions for Forest and Ecosystems), the program is implemented through the collaboration between the Korea Forest Service (KFS) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The program’s core objectives are to conserve forest ecosystems, support the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities, and promote sustainable development goals. In 2025, the program is expanding its scale, enhancing innovation activities, and fostering global expert connections to deliver breakthrough and impactful forest restoration solutions.

100%

social impact businesses (SIB)

48.1%

women leaders

16

provinces of enterprises

photo album

FOREST ECOPRENEUR 2024

After six months of dedicated implementation, the Forest Ecopreneur 2024 program achieved remarkable milestones, demonstrating our commitment to fostering sustainable forest enterprises:

- Collaborative Network: Successfully connected 35 promising enterprises with 30 highly-qualified mentors.
- Intensive Capacity Building: Completed 08 international-standard training modules and 04 expert-led technical seminars.
- Regional Connectivity & Fieldwork: 03 Regional Networking Events held in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City; 01 Field immersion program in Kon Tum, providing hands-on experience in forest management.
- Major Milestones: Successfully hosted the Opening Ceremony (Hanoi) and the Grand Demo Day, celebrating breakthrough innovations and achievements.
- Personalized Support: Hundreds of individual exchange, networking, and 1-1 mentoring sessions tailored specifically for each enterprise and mentor.