Boosting Indigenous Nature-Based Business Models
Through a partnership between FSC Indigenous Foundation (FSC-IF) and IDB Lab, this project works with four Indigenous communities of the Emberá and Wounaan Peoples in Panama to strengthen Indigenous economies and develop nature-based business models that reflect Indigenous worldviews, cultural values, and stewardship of their territories.
At the core of the initiative is the co-creation of an innovative label that recognizes the value of Indigenous Cultural Landscapes and connects Indigenous products and services with markets that value conservation, culture, and community well-being.
Our Approach
This project is grounded in a participatory, Indigenous-led approach that places communities at the center of decision-making. We work alongside Indigenous organizations and communities to strengthen governance, build economic and technical capacities, and design market mechanisms that respect Indigenous values.
Gender equity, intergenerational participation, and Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) are integrated throughout all stages of the project.
The Three Pillars of the Program
Strengthening Planning and Governance
This pillar focuses on building strong foundations for Indigenous economic development through:
- Participatory long-term economic planning using the FSC Economic Viability Tool
- Socioeconomic characterization and diagnosis of community enterprises
- Creation and consolidation of a Community of Practice for peer learning and exchange
- Dedicated spaces for women and youth to define priorities, needs, and economic visions
Strengthening Business and Technical skills
This pillar supports Indigenous communities and organizations to develop viable, sustainable businesses by:
- Strengthening business and organizational management skills
- Providing technical assistance tailored to community economic activities
- Supporting climate change adaptation and mitigation practices to ensure long-term sustainability
- Implementing organizational strengthening plans for participating communities
Facilitating label design and monitoring system
This pillar makes Indigenous stewardship visible and valued through:
- Establishment of an integrated Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system, including biodiversity, carbon, and community well-being indicators
- Creation of a Working Group to co-design a label rooted in Indigenous Cultural Landscapes
- Development and testing of a label prototype in selected niche markets and business rounds
- Visibility of indigenous storytelling through community narratives capacity building and technical support
Key Partners and Roles
Over the next two years, the project will continue to deepen Indigenous economic planning, strengthen business capacities, and refine the Indigenous Cultural Landscape label through real-world market testing.
By connecting Indigenous Peoples with markets that recognize the full value of their stewardship, knowledge, and ways of life, this initiative seeks to contribute to more inclusive, resilient, and nature-positive economies, led by Indigenous communities themselves.