This autumn, Foundation Conservation Carpathia is offering financial support through the Carpathia Fund to six local businesses in the Făgăraș Mountains area that integrate economic development with environmental care. The 2024-2025 Small Grants Programme aims to promote sustainable community development by protecting nature and utilising local resources.
Foundation Conservation Carpathia, together with its partner Conservation Capital, has completed the selection process for projects to be funded under the programme. Out of 15 applications received, six projects were chosen, each receiving a €5,000 grant. These projects were selected for their contributions to community development and nature conservation in the Făgăraș Mountains. They demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible growth.
“Through the Carpathia Fund, we aim to transform local ideas into tangible projects that show how nature can inspire and foster prosperity,” said Istvan Szabo, Green Business Development Director, Foundation Conservation Carpathia. “Whether it’s ecotourism, education, sustainable agriculture, or traditional crafts, these local businesses exemplify how economic development and environmental protection can go hand in hand. Our vision is to create a thriving community deeply connected to the natural resources of the Făgăraș Mountains.”
Projects selected for funding
‘Bikes for Tourists’ – Codrea House, Viștișoara, Brașov County
The guesthouse will enhance its services by purchasing bicycles to promote a sustainable way for tourists to explore the area. This initiative encourages eco-friendly tourism while connecting visitors to the Făgăraș Bike Trail, emphasising the region’s unique ecosystems and the link between nature and community activities.
‘Treasure Hunt on the Farm’ – Văcuța Verde, Sărata, Sibiu County
Children will engage in an educational treasure hunt to learn about farm life interactively. This project fosters appreciation for sustainable agriculture and environmental responsibility from an early age, shaping future generations to protect nature and recognize its ecological importance.
‘Outdoor Culinary Workshops’ – Delicatessen from Poiana Fermecată, Bughea de Jos, Argeș County
An open-air kitchen will host cooking workshops using locally sourced fruits and vegetables. Visitors will prepare traditional recipes, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage and promoting biodiversity, seasonal ingredients, and the connection between nature and culture.
‘Equipment for Premium Truffle Production’ – Luna’s Premium Truffles, Albeștii Ungureni, Argeș County
The project will enable the purchase of advanced machinery for truffle processing, improving product quality and efficiency. This initiative supports sustainable land use while encouraging the preservation of local truffle habitats and biodiversity.
‘Sustainable Transportation and Efficient Production’ – 7 Muscele, Valea Mare-Pravăț, Argeș County
The grant will fund an electric tricycle for milk transportation and two cows to increase production. This project enhances operational efficiency and supports the livelihoods of local communities.
‘Creating a Themed Bike Path and Local Gastronomic Point’ – Wild Wolf Adventure, Rucăr, Argeș County
Funds will establish a local gastronomic hotspot and a themed bike trail, enhancing the region’s appeal for eco-conscious visitors. The trail will guide cyclists through parts of the Făgăraș Mountains, highlighting local traditions, history, and biodiversity, while promoting nature conservation.
Implementation Details
The selected projects will launch this month and be monitored over the next year to evaluate their impact. Each beneficiary will contribute its own resources to ensure project success.
Through these grants, Foundation Conservation Carpathia continues to foster a nature-based economy and encourage local entrepreneurs’ active involvement in environmental protection. To date, the foundation’s Green Business programme, funded by the EU LIFE initiative and the Endangered Landscapes Programme, has provided advice and technical assistance to 25 local businesses.
About the Carpathia Fund
The Carpathia Fund is a financing mechanism for developing local communities around the Făgăraș Mountains. It has two components: a grants programme dedicated to the development of local communities by funding conservation, social, educational, cultural, and sports projects, and an investment programme, launched in July 2024, aimed at small local entrepreneurs in the Făgăraș Mountains area.
In 2023, Foundation Conservation Carpathia invested €410,000 in community projects through the Carpathia Fund, with more than €1 million in investments planned for 2024.
