WWF-Switzerland launches tropical forest challenge

Posted on May, 29 2012

 On behalf of WWF-Switzerland, Ennovent is managing the Tropical Forest Challenge to discover innovative for-profit enterprises from around the world that have a positive impact on tropical forest biodiversity. These innovative for-profit solutions can contribute to a sustainable future that meets the needs of both people and nature.
On behalf of WWF-Switzerland, Ennovent is managing the Tropical Forest Challenge to discover innovative for-profit enterprises from around the world that have a positive impact on tropical forest biodiversity. These innovative for-profit solutions can contribute to a sustainable future that meets the needs of both people and nature.

Although tropical rainforests cover only about 6% of the earth's land surface (less than half the area they covered not so very long ago), they are important centres of biodiversity and ecosystem services. WWF is committed to conserving the world's rainforests, not only for the incredible wealth of plants and animals that live in them, but for the benefit of people.

Sustainable enterprises providing goods and services with a neutral or positive impact on the environment and tropical forests have started, but are still relatively few in number and at an early stage. These enterprises can complement the valuable work of NGOs and governments to reduce the pressure on tropical forest biodiversity.

WWF-Switzerland, therefore, decided to run a global Discover Challenge with Ennovent to find, select and showcase the best enterprises working on innovative solutions that make a positive impact. Ennovent will jointly facilitate a process with WWF Switzerland to select the best for-profit enterprises from around the world, in 3 categories: Idea (concept note), Startup (proof-of-market) & Company (break-even).

The winner in each category will receive global visibility (high quality publication, online visibility), networking opportunities and capacity building. The first who nominates a winner will get a EUR 1,000 cash reward and global visibility. Apply or nominate an enterprise here!

About Ennovent
Ennovent accelerates innovations creating a sustainable impact on low-income people. We work with a global network of entrepreneurs, investors and experts to discover, finance and scale up the best innovations. We envision sustainable living for people at the base of the economic pyramid. 
WWF Centroamerica
© Felix Grande Bagazgoitia
Kayan Mentarang National Park, East Kalimantan (K. Timur), Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo), Indonesia
© Alain Compost / WWF