Conservation Finance Network (CFN)
The Conservation Finance Network (CFN) is a group of thought leaders that work together to advance cutting-edge conservation finance ideas. Our goal is to further the field of conservation finance by connecting disparate stakeholders in conservation finance. Our diverse network of professionals will strive to advance learning and share best practices, providing resources for the growing conservation finance community. We believe the steps to do that are the following:
- Develop materials and mechanisms to facilitate training and learning, including templates for workshop curriculum as well as mechanisms to train additional trainers
- Plan a range of conservation finance workshops, accessible to interested individuals around the country
- Build an interactive and dynamic online community to create learning opportunities beyond in-person workshops
The Conservation Finance Boot Camps at Yale and Stanford are anchors of the Conservation Finance Network. These week-long training programs provide the most up-to-date, innovative, and successful tools available for conservationists. Each program features the expertise of respected leaders in the field and is designed to leave participants with a wealth of practical, hands-on information. Registration is limited in order to facilitate small-group discussion, maximize participants’ interaction with visiting speakers, and foster networking.
The 2012 Western Conservation Finance Camp, held at Stanford University from January 30-February 3, 2012, brought together a diverse group of 25 land trust staffers, private sector conservationists, and foundation leaders for an intensive week-long training program. The Boot Camp was implemented in partnership with the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment. The curriculum, crafted by conservation finance leader Story Clark, featured lectures, panels, and roundtable discussions led by some of the most esteemed and knowledgeable experts in the field. Participants in the 2012 Boot Camp completed the week with a greater understanding of the finance opportunities available to conservationists in the West, as well as a network of committed professionals working on similar issues across the region.
Check back soon for information about the next Conservation Finance Network workshop or networking opportunity.
