GFCR Case Studies

The following case studies from the GFCR portfolio are now available, updated in March 2025. Upon clicking the button "Relevant Case Study" on the below pages, you will need to be logged in to your REEF+ profile to be able to access and download case studies.

Blending of enterprise development for fisheries with de-risking mechanisms in Honduras

This solution supports 945 small-scale fishers in adopting responsible fishing practices while improving access to finance through concessional loans, guarantees, and parametric insurance. It demonstrates a blended finance approach to build climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods in reef-dependent communities.

Financing sustainable shrimp farming in Belize: Royal Mayan Shrimp Farms

GFCR’s catalytic support helped scale a reef-positive shrimp farming business certified by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). The case showcases how impact financing can transform aquaculture into a sustainable, reef-compatible enterprise.

Emergency response and risk financing for coral reefs in the Bahamas

This case presents the design for a coral reef parametric insurance product for the Bahamas. The approach demonstrates how nature-based risk financing can accelerate reef recovery and build national resilience to climate shocks.

Facilitated finance for a sustainable fishing fleet in Colombia

GFCR and partners helped connect traditional fishing communities with tailored credit products and business training. This has enabled fishers to upgrade to sustainable boats and gear, reducing pressure on vulnerable reef ecosystems.

Structuring sustainable finance for MPAs in Colombia: Seaflower Fund

The Seaflower Fund blends endowment and sinking financing to secure long-term funding for coral-rich MPAs in the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. Catalyzed by GFCR, it has unlocked US$4.7 million and created innovative pathways for local co-financing.

Bridging the Marine Protected Areas funding gap in the Philippines, Tanzania, and Indonesia: blue finance blended vehicle

This cross-regional blended finance facility is designed to address the large funding gap for MPA management. GFCR is supporting legal structuring and pipeline development across three countries, targeting both revenue-generating and conservation-oriented investments.

Sea cucumber community-based aquaculture: AQUAHUB

AQUAHUB is a scalable sea cucumber aquaculture model that links community co-operatives with private sector buyers under a traceability and sustainability framework. GFCR funding enabled its expansion and design of a blended investment vehicle.

Sustainable mooring infrastructure for reef protection in Indonesia: Raja Ampat Mooring System

To combat anchor damage in one of the world’s most biodiverse reefs, GFCR supported the installation of sustainable moorings and created a business model for long-term maintenance. The system now protects coral habitats while supporting dive tourism.

First ever debt-for-nature swap for coral reefs launched in Indonesia

Indonesia’s first debt-for-nature swap under the TFCCA redirects US$35 million in debt relief toward reef conservation. GFCR’s catalytic capital helped structure the facility, paving the way for a 10-year sinking fund to support MPAs, sustainable livelihoods, and ecosystem restoration.