Our latest innovative financing case study explores the Niue Ocean Wide Trust, established to support Niue’s commitment to sustainably manage 100% of its ocean territory. 

Niue’s entire Exclusive Economic Zone (around 321,000 km²) is managed as a marine park, with 40% protected as a no-take area. The remaining waters are zoned for village subsistence fishing, tourism, local fishing and carefully regulated commercial use. 

The NOW Trust was created by the Government of Niue and local environmental organisation Tofia Niue, building on seven years of collaboration. Its Ocean Conservation Commitments allow supporters to contribute NZD 250 towards protecting 1 km² of ocean for 20 years. These are not offsets or ownership rights: contributions are pooled to support long-term marine management, enforcement, climate resilience, education and sustainable livelihoods.

The case study looks beyond fundraising to the practical “engine room” of the model: strong government commitment, public–private collaboration, community participation, accountable trust governance and investment for both immediate needs and a long-term endowment.

Find the case study below.

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