Nature For Justice

USA: FARMER INCLUSION PROGRAM IN NORTH CAROLINA AND VIRGINIA: 2025 was a year of consolidation, expansion, and renewed momentum. After the loss of USDA funding, the program strengthened its foundations, deepened relationships with farmers, took deliberate steps toward long-term, farmer-centered impact across the Southeast, and successfully mobilized new private and philanthropic funding. This funding diversification was an important step toward a more resilient financial model. One of the most significant achievements was the geographic expansion from North Carolina into Virginia, supporting a growing network of Black farmers adopting regenerative agricultural practices. It was supported by Cargill and built on trusted partnerships and existing farmer networks. By the end of 2025, the program was supporting more than 210 Black farmers across the two states. 2025 was also a year of systems-building, with significant time and effort were dedicated to developing the foundations of a tech-enabled Revolving Loan Fund, designed to address lack of access to affordable, appropriate finance.

CANADA: FIRST 30X30 Indigenous-led conservation is essential to achieving national 30x30 biodiversity targets. While carbon markets have the potential to unlock long-term funding for Indigenous stewardship, early-stage financing remains scarce, preventing many First Nations from accessing these opportunities. In 2025, we advanced this mission: completed 3 pre-feasibility assessments (Market Opportunity Assessments, or MOAs) with Indigenous Nations, analyzing 600,000 acres of Indigenous territory; they represent the first step toward achieving approximately 16.7 million tonnes of sequestered and/or avoided CO2e emissions. First 30x30 has engaged 38 Nations across 6 provinces and territories. N4J secured a $10 million 5-year grant from the BHP Foundation towards year-end. $2 million was received in January 2026 and the remaining funds will be provided in the 3rd quarter or 2026. We have also received significant funding from RBC and expect additional funds in 2027.