Indigenous Communities Lead Climate Change Response Efforts with the Support of the Keepers of the Earth Fund

Strategic Insights -

As climate change continues to ravage communities worldwide, Indigenous Peoples are not waiting for external solutions. With the support of the Keepers of the Earth Fund (KOEF), Indigenous communities are at the forefront of climate change adaptation and resilience actions. In 2025, KOEF partnered with 65 Indigenous communities and organizations in 26 countries, providing $531,000 in direct support. The funds were used to implement a range of projects aimed at strengthening Indigenous Knowledge and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Key Takeaways:

  • KOEF has supported 440 projects in 42 countries since 2017, totaling $2,667,147.
  • In 2025, KOEF provided $531,000 in direct support to 65 Indigenous communities and organizations in 26 countries.
  • KOEF's grantmaking strategies are guided by a rights-based approach and prioritize the equitable distribution of resources to Indigenous communities.
  • The fund has partnered with organizations such as the Federation of Indigenous Organizations of Napo (FOIN), the National Agrarian Confederation (CNA), and the Association of Artisanal Fishers (AAF).
  • KOEF's projects aim to address climate change adaptation and resilience actions, including monitoring environmental impacts, developing culturally relevant management plans, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
  • The fund has also provided emergency grants to support communities affected by natural disasters, including floods, landslides, and crop failures.
  • KOEF's partnerships with Indigenous communities have resulted in a range of innovative projects, including the construction of spillways to redirect water flows, the implementation of autonomous irrigation systems, and the development of community-led environmental and cultural initiatives.

Statistics:

  • KOEF has supported 440 projects in 42 countries since 2017, totaling $2,667,147.
  • In 2025, KOEF provided $531,000 in direct support to 65 Indigenous communities and organizations in 26 countries.
  • The fund has supported projects in countries such as Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Bolivia, Colombia, and India.
  • KOEF has partnered with a range of Indigenous organizations, including the Federation of Indigenous Organizations of Napo (FOIN), the National Agrarian Confederation (CNA), and the Association of Artisanal Fishers (AAF).

Sources:

  • Cultural Survival, Keepers of the Earth Fund, 2025 Partnerships with Indigenous Communities
  • KOEF, 2025 Annual Report
  • FOIN, 2023 Annual Report
  • CNA, 2024 Annual Report
  • AAF, Ocean Arts Project, 2024