Within the framework of the Comprehensive Amazon Program for the Conservation of Forests and Sustainable Production (PROAmazonía), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and the Ministry of Environment and Water (MAAE) invite indigenous communities, peoples and nationalities of the Francisco de Orellana, Shushufindi, Morona, Taisha and Nangaritza cantons, as well as their NGO and university partners, to submit their summaries of proposals to promote the sustainable use of non-timber forest products, in order to obtain non-reimbursable financing.

The competitive fund hopes to promote bio-enterprises, food security and applied research, initiatives related to the sustainable use of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) from natural or replanted forests, including agroforestry areas (chakras, ajas, among others). The objective is to provide economic alternatives to reduce deforestation and forest degradation.

How to apply for the funds?

Applications can be sent until August 30, 2020, in PDF files to: bioemprendimientos@proamazonia.org  

Some examples of projects that could benefit from these funds are: the improvement of bio-enterprises involving seeds, fibers, native palm oils, essential oils, natural soap, bamboo products, native foods, and honey; improvement of food security (through chakra diversification with native species); applied research and technology transfer for fermented cassava and its other applications, added value of bihao, vanilla production and industrialization, bryophytes, plants with adjuvant properties to treat respiratory inflammations, among others.

The invitation excludes conventional agricultural products such as: coffee, cocoa, palm and cattle.

PROAmazonia will execute this competitive fund with financing from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Download the rules of the invitation:

https://www.proamazonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2da-Convocatoria-de-propuestas-de-bioemprendimientos-PROAmazon%C3%ADa.pdf

Download the Project Form:

https://www.proamazonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Anexo-1.-Resumen-del-Proyecto.docx

Download the Proposal Qualification Guide:

https://www.proamazonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Anexo-2.-Guía-de-calificación-de-las-propuestas.pdf

Information is also available on the websites of the Ministries of Agriculture and Livestock and Environment and Water.

MAG: www.agricultura.gob.ec 

MAAE: https://bit.ly/2NMkRGk