Theory of Change
For centuries, Indigenous Peoples have resiliently defended their territories against encroachment by extractive industries, drawing upon profound spiritual and ecological wisdom deeply ingrained in their cultures and territories. Yet, this traditional knowledge, safeguarded over generations, remains largely unrecognized in the spheres of conservation strategy and global philanthropy. This oversight often leads to adverse outcomes that erode the integrity of our communities, territories, and cultural heritage.
Traditional knowledge holds the key to sustainable biocultural conservation, fostering healthier communities and ecological harmony, especially in these pivotal times. It is imperative that this wisdom, intrinsically tied to specific places and territories, remains a guiding force in our strategic endeavors.
To guarantee the utmost efficacy of this approach, it is essential to prioritize not just Indigenous leadership in conservation organizations, but also to ensure that philanthropic efforts and public awareness campaigns are shaped and led by the guardians of this knowledge.
By allowing the vision and directives of these knowledge holders to steer the allocation of resources and the focus of the broader public, we can foster conservation efforts that are both effective, in right relationship and deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of traditional understanding and respect for the territories.
By providing direct support to Indigenous-led efforts in the territories, making significant investments in infrastructure—such as land acquisition, educational facilities, water projects, cultural centers, and agro-forestry initiatives we will fortify the long-term resilience and flourishing of these diverse biocultures.
Taking decisive action within the next five years will lay the groundwork for a future where our role may become obsolete in 7 years and direct funding of Indigenous-led processes has become the norm in conservation strategy and philanthropy — signaling the
attainment of genuine, sustainable progress towards Indigenous sovereignty and strengthening of Indigenous territories and culture.
Phase 1
Building our Network and Methodologies
The IMC Fund will build trusted partnerships and assessment-based processes in each bioculture, implement ecological and community-based assessments, establish a basic methodology, publish collaborative papers, and increase engagement in understanding best practices for benefit sharing and conservation. These efforts will inform consumer choices and support international human rights standards and biodiversity protocols within the psychedelic field.
Phase 2
Refining Strategy and Scaling of Support
High-level strategy work is done to identify target goals for long-lasting biocultural conservation. By developing discrete targets for each bioculture, incorporating newly-developed strategies into assessment methodology, and implementing benefit sharing best practices and standards, the Fund aims to ensure sustainable access to plant medicines, governance systems, and ongoing funding needs and sources. For example, in Ayahuasca this means 15-18 substantive conservation projects in the Amazon, including target numbers of tribes, land areas, and specific infrastructure and technical support required.
Phase 3
Strengthening and Scaling Impact
Through consistent partnership between the IMC Fund and our partners, each bioculture has strategies in place for long-term access to medicine with culturally supportive methodologies, and our network of allies has expanded to include a critical number of keystone communities. Our partners have transition plans for long-term funding and sustainability, and together we have a robust network of philanthropic and advocacy allies. The adoption of Indigenous-led conservation efforts is normalized.
