Building the New Architecture for Indigenous-Led Nature Finance

Achieving the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) will require a fundamental shift in how biodiversity is financed. As Parties advance implementation of the CBD Resource Mobilization Strategy and the COP17 Presidency’s vision for innovative partnerships, there is growing recognition that Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) must be central partners in designing and delivering effective financing solutions. This high-level dialogue will explore what a new global architecture for Indigenous-led nature finance should look like. Bringing together Indigenous leaders, governments, multilateral funds, philanthropic organizations, conservation organizations, and innovative finance partners, the session will examine how existing and emerging financing mechanisms—including direct access models, multilateral funds, blended finance, and territorial approaches—can work together to support long-term Indigenous stewardship of nature. Drawing on lessons from the Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI) and other pioneering initiatives, participants will discuss practical pathways to strengthen coordination across financing mechanisms, scale investment in Indigenous-led conservation, and build new partnerships that contribute to implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework and the CBD Resource Mobilization Strategy. Rather than showcasing individual projects, the discussion will focus on transforming the global financing system to better support Indigenous leadership as a cornerstone of Nature Positive implementation.