An online business training program to support initiatives that safeguard and restore natural ecosystems
entrepreneurs
reported higher confidence in running their business after the program
About the SAFE Forest Restoration Incubation Program
Small businesses have a huge potential role to play in forest protection in addition to local economic development. The Sustaining an Abundance of Forest Ecosystems (SAFE) Incubation Program helps local businesses linked to forest restoration and forest communities learn, connect, and expand their businesses. The program utilizes our partner Bridge for Billions’ globally recognized business curriculum and online learning platform, complemented by additional in-person and online programming.
We’re currently supporting 15 initiatives and early-stage ventures in Cambodia through the program. Learn more about them and get in touch if you’d like to be part of our upcoming events!
Meet the inspiring changemakers
Kon Prey
Kon Prey
A start-up educational outreach initiative focused on raising awareness of climate and environment, paired with a plant shop to help urban dwellers connect to greenery and forest
Indigenous Agriculture
Indigenous Agriculture
Supporting sustainable farming practices within the Indigenous community of Pu Pnong in the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary to prevent deforestation
Cambo Adventure
Cambo Adventure
A travel agency offering memorable experiences that promote responsible tourism, minimize environmental impact, and empower local communities & youths
Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre
Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre
The Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre is Southeast Asia’s largest outdoor butterfly exhibit. Ticket revenue supports local poverty alleviation and conservation projects.
ព្រៃ-Prey
ព្រៃ-Prey
ព្រៃ-Prey’s goal is to facilitate tree planting and forest restoration efforts by providing specialized technical services and building awareness
Kamboo Ecotourism
Kamboo Ecotourism
Offering travel experiences and group activities focused on preserving natural areas, conserving the environment, and improving the well-being of local communities
EPL Pollinate Honey
EPL Pollinate Honey
A social enterprise producing and distributing wild honey from Mondulkiri province, supporting local livelihood development and forest conservation in Northeast Cambodia
Ecotourism Resort Cambodia
Ecotourism Resort Cambodia
Restoring forests and supporting sustainable local livelihoods at two forest community-based eco-tourism sites in Preah Vihear as part of RECOFTC Cambodia’s sustainable natural resource management efforts
Our Approach
Business Curriculum
From marketing to financial planning to measuring impact (and more!), the Bridge for Billions online learning platform covers the fundamentals of launching a business. Entrepreneurs progressed through the interactive platform, and we provided additional support through one-on-one and group checkpoint sessions.
Dedicated Mentoring
Mentoring was a significant part of the program. Our inspiring mentors dedicated dozens of hours per entrepreneur over the course of a few months, providing individualized advice and guiding the entrepreneurs through the modules of the online platform.
Real-World Exposure
Every entrepreneur needs some inspiration and examples! Through sessions with guest experts and a field trip to local forest communities in Kampong Thom, our entrepreneurs gained deeper insights into responsible business, forest restoration, and local livelihood development.
In their words
“The SAFE Incubation Program helped turn my idea into something tangible,” shares entrepreneur Sophanuth. Meet a few of the entrepreneurs in the program and discover their journeys through the program!
At the end of the program...
of entrepreneurs reported improved ability to structure their business
improved their understanding of their customer segments
have a clearer vision for their business and are able to better plan and define scenarios
learned how to test the business viability of their venture