Machalilla National Park · Ecuador · Territorial lead: CONMAR
Corallium — CONMAR
Coral restoration, scientific monitoring and community capacity building
TAF-Approved Funding Opportunity
Since 2021
Active programme
12,000+
Coral fragments planted
1,000 m²
Under active restoration
Historical results reported and confirmed by CONMAR.
01 · The opportunity
Coral restoration, scientific monitoring and community capacity building
TAF and CONMAR have structured catalytic funding to expand Corallium, connecting coral restoration, scientific monitoring, community capacity and marine ecosystem protection.
02 · Local leadership & need
Who leads, and why it matters
CONMAR operates nurseries, monitors restoration, trains Coral Guardians (local community members participating in CONMAR's conservation activities) and has installed 12 mooring buoys. Warming, El Niño, anchoring and pollution threaten coral ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.
03 · Funding
What the funding will support
Initial catalytic funding request
USD 50,000
First tranche of a 12-month phase.
Estimated phase budget: USD 125,000.
- Coral restoration materials, structures, diving and maintenance.
- Photogrammetry, sensors, image analysis and data management.
- Coral Guardians training, scholarships, certifications and safety.
- Existing buoy maintenance and preparation for new installations.
- Technical personnel and scientific coordination.
04 · Expected results
Programme goals 2027–2031
By 2031: approximately 2,000 m² under restoration; 18,900 additional fragments — over 30,900 total; up to 60 Coral Guardians; and at least 20 buoys across three marine protected areas.
Programme budget 2027–2031 (CONMAR): USD 640,995.
These are goals, not results already achieved.
05 · Deployment & accountability
Deployment & accountability
Capital deployed against agreed milestones; final allocation agreed before disbursement to reflect component readiness and avoid duplication.
06 · TAF's role
What TAF coordinates
TAF structures the opportunity with CONMAR, conducts proportionate assessment, coordinates funding and supports implementation accompaniment, evidence collection and reporting. TAF's Coordination & Accountability Fee is separate from Project Capital. Local leadership and decision-making remain with CONMAR.
TAF-Approved Funding Opportunity
Validated with CONMAR and authorised for presentation to prospective funders within the agreed scope.