Conservation Development Foundation

NTNC - Annapurna Conservation Area Project Launched in 1986, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is the largest undertaking of NTNC and also the first Conservation Area and largest protected area in Nepal. It covers an area of 7,629 sq. km. and is home to over 100,000 residents.

The Conservation Development Foundation (CODEFUND) is a non-governmental organization based in Nepal, dedicated to the integrated conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development. Formally declared on Feb 2, 2011 (World Wetland Day), and formally established on June 6, 2011 on the occasion of World Environment Day, CODEFUND is officially registered with the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, and affiliated with the Social Welfare Council of Nepal. Over the past decade, it has built a good track record of projects, partnerships, and innovations that highlight its role as a leading institution in environmental stewardship and community empowerment.

Areas of Specialization:

CODEFUND focuses on the nexus of biodiversity conservation, community well-being, and climate resilience, with a special emphasis on wetlands and freshwater ecosystems. Its expertise covers:
• Wetland Conservation & Management:– Ramsar site management plans, basin-level integrated site plans, Ramsar Information Sheets, wetland health assessment frameworks, capacity enhancement, and so on.
• Biodiversity/Environment Research & Monitoring: Scientific inventories of flora and fauna, conservation of CITES-listed species, and studies to mitigate human–wildlife conflicts.
• Climate Resilience & Livelihoods: Community-based adaptation strategies, green economy initiatives, and eco-tourism development. Further, CODEFUND is exploring partnering opportunity with global institution for a WISE USE of WETLANDS IN NEPAL with a mission to deliver 'WoW' factor, making communities economically affluent and environmentally sound.
• Policy & Governance: Evidence-based policy advocacy, institutional strengthening, strategic planning, and governance reform.

Achievements & Project Portfolio:

CODEFUND has successfully executed over 55 projects across Nepal, many of which were supported by global partners such as WWF, USAID, IUCN, and the Ramsar Convention Secretariat. Key accomplishments include:
• Preparation of management plans for Ramsar sites such as Rara, Phoksundo, Gosainkunda, and the Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley.
• Development of Nepal’s National Strategy on Alien Invasive Species.
• Design and implementation of frameworks for wetland health assessment and report cards.
• Support for the establishment of zoological parks, biodiversity corridors, and wildlife rescue centers.
• Contribution to community-based climate resilience, livelihood diversification, and governance of natural resources.

Global Engagement:

CODEFUND’s efforts are aligned with international conventions and frameworks, including the Ramsar Convention, Convention on Biological Diversity, and Sustainable Development Goals. It actively promotes Integrated Lake Basin Management (ILBM) in collaboration with the International Lake Environment Committee Foundation (ILEC), Japan, and is a proud global member of:
• International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
• Wetland Link International
• World Wetland Network

Institutional Strength:

The organization is governed by a diverse Board of Governors, supported by a strong multidisciplinary team of full-time staff, associates, and consultants with expertise spanning natural sciences, economics, engineering, sociology, gender equality, and governance. CODEFUND has consistently demonstrated financial transparency and accountability, with annual audits and tax clearances since its establishment. It has full time operating secretariat based in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Forward-Looking Vision:
With a mission to harmonize social and environmental well-being through collective action, CODEFUND places particular emphasis on empowering marginalized and indigenous communities. It is currently spearheading the establishment of a Wetlands Academy in Nepal, envisioned as a hub for capacity building, research, and knowledge dissemination on freshwater ecosystems.

CODEFUND Stands Out:

• Credibility: Over a decade of recognized contributions to biodiversity conservation and environmental governance.
• Innovation: Development of cutting-edge methodologies for wetland health, climate adaptation, and ecosystem management.
• Partnerships: Trusted collaborator with national governments, international organizations, and grassroots communities.
• Impact: Tangible contributions to conservation science, livelihoods, and policy reform.

CODEFUND is a dynamic, credible, and forward-thinking organization that seamlessly integrates conservation science with community development, making it an ideal partner for global organizations seeking to advance freshwater biodiversity, prosperity, and sustainable development in Nepal, the Himalayas, and beyond.

RESEARCH GRANT

Those who are interested for research grants by NTNC, please kindly connect yourself in the given link.

https://www.facebook.com/ntncacap

NTNC - Annapurna Conservation Area Project Launched in 1986, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is the largest undertaking of NTNC and also the first Conservation Area and largest protected area in Nepal. It covers an area of 7,629 sq. km. and is home to over 100,000 residents.

Dear Dignitaries,

Warm greetings to you all. This year has been a period of remarkable engagement, where our projects—funded by diverse institutions and supported by dedicated partners—are now approaching successful completion. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors, collaborating institutions within and beyond Nepal, esteemed experts, and the dedicated members of CODEFUND for your unwavering guidance, support, and encouragement, which have brought us to this stage of achievement.

As Nepal enters the season of its major festivities, including the auspicious occasion of Dashain, we wish to share our heartfelt blessings for Prosperity, Wisdom, and Peace to each of you and your families. May these celebrations bring renewed hope and success in all your endeavors.

With deepest appreciation,
The CODEFUND Team