UNDP-Backed Accelerator to Support Early-Stage Nature-Based Enterprises
The accelerator will run for six months, supporting 10 selected high-potential nature-based enterprises.
Social enterprise incubator Villgro Philippines and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched the NatureNest Accelerator, which is designed to support Nature-based Enterprises (NbEs) that are reshaping how we care for people and the planet.
In partnership with the Department of Finance (DoF) and other national government agencies, the NatureNest Accelerator is part of the Accelerating Green and Climate Finance in the Philippines: Nature-based Solutions (AGCF) Project and funded by the Government of Canada.
“NatureNest is built on the belief that the most powerful climate solutions are rooted in nature and driven by local communities,” said Villgro Philippines CEO and Co-Founder Priya Thachadi. “Through this accelerator, we join hands with UNDP and AGCF to connect grassroots innovators to the tools, networks, and capital they need to create nature-positive impact.”
A six-month program, the NatureNest Accelerator aims to unlock the potential of locally rooted solutions that harness natural systems to address pressing climate and environmental challenges, while creating sustainable livelihoods.
“Communities are at the forefront of climate change, and directly depend on thriving ecosystems for their livelihood,” UNDP Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran pointed out. “Strengthening their ability to lead enterprises that harness nature-based solutions can build our communities’ resilience to climate change, ensure the sustainable use of natural resources, and provide for their economic well-being.”
“We all must do what we can to support them,” Dr. Ramachandran added.
Who Can Apply for the NatureNest Accelerator
Applications are open to early-stage enterprises operating for at least one year in the Philippines. Applicants must be working in sectors such as but not limited to the following:
- Environment, natural resources, and biodiversity restoration
- Sustainable agriculture and biodiversity-friendly food production
- Forestry and biomaterials
- Ecotourism and community well-being
In addition, applicants must demonstrate a clear environmental impact, sustainable business potential, and community engagement. Applications from enterprises led by women and indigenous people are especially encouraged.
Applications will close on June 13, 2025. Those interested to apply may do so via the Villgro Philippines website.
Opportunities for Participants
During the six-month duration of the accelerator, a total of 10 high-potential enterprises working in or near forest, marine, or agricultural ecosystems will be supported. Participants will gain access to technical assistance, tailored mentoring and coaching, investment readiness training, funding and network access, and more.
The NatureNest Accelerator is free of charge and scheduled to run from May to September 2025. An Impact Showcase, which will culminate the program, will be held in September.
Frequently Asked Questions
The NatureNest Accelerator is a six-month program launched by Villgro Philippines and UNDP, in partnership with the Department of Finance, to support early-stage nature-based enterprises. It is funded by the Government of Canada under the Accelerating Green and Climate Finance in the Philippines project.
Applicants must be early-stage enterprises that have operated in the Philippines for at least one year, working in sectors such as biodiversity restoration, sustainable agriculture, forestry and biomaterials, or ecotourism. Enterprises led by women and indigenous people are especially encouraged to apply.
It works with enterprises operating in or near forest, marine, or agricultural ecosystems, spanning biodiversity restoration, sustainable food production, forestry and biomaterials, and ecotourism. A total of 10 high-potential enterprises will be selected for the program.
Participants receive technical assistance, tailored mentoring and coaching, investment readiness training, and access to funding and networks, at no cost to the enterprises selected. The program culminates in an Impact Showcase presenting participants’ progress and results.
The NatureNest Accelerator runs from May to September 2025, with applications closing on June 13, 2025. The free, six-month program concludes with an Impact Showcase in September, highlighting the progress of the 10 selected nature-based enterprises supported throughout the accelerator.
