Our Approach

The Sol de Janeiro Foundation will never chase vanity metrics. Instead, you’ll catch us investing in programs that aim for transformative, holistic, and systemic impact. Why? Because true progress isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about foundational change. 

More About Us

Program Focus

These are the principles that inspire our actions, shape our partnerships, and define our purpose.

Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the incredible variety of life on Earth. More specifically, it’s the delicate balance of ecosystems, species, and genetics that work in harmony to sustain our planet. It’s also a balance that’s slipping. Significant percentages of biodiversity have already been lost, threatening not only nature but human health, food security, and economic stability.

Where we work

We currently prioritize places of abundant biodiversity, predominantly in Brazil. We chose Brazil as a thank you to the country that has inspired and influenced Sol de Janeiro from the beginning. We will expand to other regions rich in biodiversity as the Foundation grows.

How we work 

The latest science, local partner expertise and indigenous wisdom guide our funding approach. In addition, we follow three core principles:

Protect & Restore Biodiversity

We select projects located in areas of high biodiversity.

Prioritize Indigenous Wisdom & Rights

We require Indigenous rights and voices to be at the forefront of decision making in their territories.

Uplift Bioeconomy Initatives

We support the advancement of sustainable, forest-based livelihoods—helping local communities thrive while keeping nature conserved.

Women & Girls

Sol de Janeiro was founded to celebrate beauty and inspire confidence — in everyone, but especially in women and girls. Unfortunately, far too many barriers still limit their potential today. Our Foundation funds projects that provide women and girls with access to education, healthcare, and equal opportunities. It’s not only fair; it’s a more promising future for all. 

Where we work

We work wherever there are women and girls. In other words, we proudly fund initiatives worldwide. 

How we work 

We are guided by local partner expertise. Each partner also shares our three unwavering beliefs. 

Gender Equality is a Fundamental Human Right

Gender Equality is Essential to Sustainable Development

Gender Equality is Key to Achieving Peaceful Societies 

Our grantees

Since 2024, Sol de Janeiro Foundation has signed 13 grants to organizations around the world. We’re excited to showcase our recent grant recipients and their transformational work. You can see where below.

Organizations Funded

WaterAid

Supporting the expansion of access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in schools and healthcare facilities across Africa and South Asia, with a focus on women and girls.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

3 years

Iracambi

Supporting the purchase and restoration of a critical forest corridor adjacent to a State Park to connect fragmented habitats in the Atlantic Forest.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

3 years

FFORA

Supporting the creation of an Indigenous Peoples-led Chamber of Commerce to scale climate-focused, Indigenous-owned bioeconomy enterprises, driving forest conservation.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

2 years

RESOLVE

Supporting the protection of globally significant biodiversity sites in the Atlantic and Amazon forests by establishing legally protected areas.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

3 years

Rainforest Trust

Supporting the establishment of legally protected conservation areas to safeguard intact rainforests under Indigenous stewardship.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

3 years

Rainforest Foundation US

Supporting the strengthening of forest monitoring in the Brazilian Amazon to protect Indigenous territories and prevent deforestation.

Date Awarded

July 2025

partnership duration

3 years

Inspiring Girls

Supporting efforts to connect girls worldwide with diverse female role models to broaden their horizons, boost confidence, and inspire ambition.

Date Awarded

July 2024

partnership duration

3 years

Girls Opportunity Alliance

Supporting grassroots organizations through capacity-building trainings and financial resources to advance girls’ education and empowerment.

Date Awarded

July 2024

partnership duration

5 years

SOS Mata Atlântica

Supporting the construction of a new nursery to advance restoration of the Atlantic Forest.

Date Awarded

July 2024

partnership duration

5 years

Filha do Sol

Supporting capacity training for women leaders and Indigenous Peoples in Northeastern Brazil to strengthen climate resilience and biodiversity restoration.

Date Awarded

July 2024

partnership duration

3 years

Institute for Ecological Research (IPE)

Supporting the development of biodiversity corridors in the Atlantic Forest, educational scholarships in biodiversity conservation, and unrestricted funding.

Date Awarded

July 2024

partnership duration

5 years

Rainforest Action Network

Event sponsorships during NY Climate Week to fundraise for frontline communities.

Date Awarded

September 2024

partnership duration

1 year

American Red Cross

Emergency funding for Hurricane Milton and Helene relief efforts in Florida.

Date Awarded

October 2024

partnership duration

1 year

Looking for a
philanthropic partner?

Foundation partnerships are currently available by invitation only. We’ll update you here if and when we open applications. Thank you for your interest!

For other questions or inquires contact us here.