Upcoming MPA Finance Webinar: First Steps for Marine Managers

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are important tools for supporting the conservation and recovery of marine ecosystems. MPAs also provide critical co-benefits to nearby communities by improving fisheries management, enhancing tourism, and supporting resilient coastal communities. Despite their importance and value, it can be difficult to secure funding to support the long-term success and ongoing needs of MPAs. To help managers and planners better understand MPA finance opportunities, the Reef Resilience Network developed a new MPA Finance Toolkit in partnership with the Blue Nature Alliance.

During this webinar, speakers will provide an overview of the MPA Finance Toolkit and share insights on practical steps managers can take to explore financing options for their own sites. Allen Cedras, Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), will draw on his experience as a site-level manager and expertise in MPA financing to provide a real-world example of MPA financing in practice. He will discuss the history of SPGA’s financing, including the structure of the SPGA, its transition from a government entity to a public-private enterprise, and the SPGA user fee system.

The webinar will last for one hour and the presentations will be followed by an open question-and-answer session. A recording of the webinar will be available on the Reef Resilience Network website and YouTube channel.