Forest Ecopreneur Program 2024

The Forest Ecopreneur Program 2024 (the Program) is part of the SAFE Initiative, implemented through a partnership between the Korea Forest Service (KFS) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The program aims to conserve and restore vulnerable forest ecosystems while focusing on protecting forest-dependent communities and supporting forest restoration businesses.

In 2024, the Program seeks 100 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in forest conservation in three Indochina countries: Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. These businesses will receive incubation, capacity building, and investment connections. UNEP and Bridge for Billions will lead the program, while the Institute for Innovation and Development (IID) will be the implementing partner in Vietnam. IID will be responsible for program design, business sourcing, organizing training activities, incubation, and connecting resources, as well as providing mentoring and support to businesses.

Program data for 2024:

• 79 businesses registered to participate.
• 35 businesses were selected, distributed across 13 provinces and cities.
  • 100% of businesses have a social impact.
  • 54% of businesses are led by women.
  • 50% of employees are women.
• 30 mentors from 10 provinces, cities, and 3 countries.
  • 65% of mentors are women.
  • The average age of mentors is 45.
• 5 in-person events including:
  • A field trip to Tu Mo Rong, Kon Tum province.
  • A Demo Day at the UN House.

• Regular online events and meetings held 1-2 times/week.

The Forest Ecopreneur Program 2024 promises to be a significant step in protecting and sustainably developing forest ecosystems in the Indochina region while creating positive social impacts and supporting sustainable business development.

Join us in our journey to conserve and restore our forests!