Programs
Supporting the beating heart of geoparks.
Our Programs and Events
Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) Programs are a series of initiatives designed to promote sustainable development, investment, and innovation within geoparks globally. These programs foster collaboration among investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to support the growth and conservation of geoparks while addressing environmental and socio-economic challenges.
What are the different types of programs available in GIAC?
The Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) Programs are designed to foster sustainable development, innovation, and collaboration within geoparks globally. These initiatives aim to support economic growth, environmental conservation, and community empowerment through a range of funding, education, and networking opportunities.
The Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) offers a diverse range of programs and events aimed at supporting the sustainable development, innovation, and global collaboration within geoparks. Our programs include initiatives like the Geoparks Development Fund to support project funding, the Innovation Lab to encourage creative solutions, and the Geopreneur Incubators Initiative to nurture new businesses. Additionally, the Geopark Climate Action Network and the Geopark Culture and the Arts program focus on addressing climate challenges and promoting cultural heritage. We also offer opportunities for career development through the Geoparks Career Hub and Geolearn, a platform for education, certification and skill-building.
Our events include global gatherings like the Geoparks Global Expo and Geotourism Festival, which celebrate and promote geopark achievements, as well as the Geoparks Investment and Business Summit to connect investors and entrepreneurs. To honor excellence, we host the Geoparks Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to geopark development and sustainability. Together, these programs and events work to strengthen the geopark network, empower local communities, and drive positive change worldwide.
Geoparks Development Fund
The Geoparks Development Fund is a venture capital initiative managed by the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council through our Investors Network, designed to support the growth and sustainability of geoparks worldwide. This fund seeks to invest in innovative projects that promote the conservation, education, and development of geoparks, fostering sustainable tourism, environmental protection, and community engagement. By leveraging strategic investments, the fund aims to enhance the global geoparks network, ensuring their long-term viability while encouraging economic development in local communities through responsible and impactful initiatives.
Global Geoparks Investment and Business Summit
The Global Geoparks Investment and Business Summit, known as "The Summit," is an annual event that brings together global leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to explore the economic and business opportunities within the geoparks network. The Summit focuses on the intersection of investment, sustainable development, and the preservation of natural heritage, but with a specific emphasis on geoparks — sites of geological significance that also promote cultural and environmental sustainability. Held each year at a different geopark location, the event provides a platform for discussing innovative solutions in ecotourism, conservation, renewable energy, and green technologies, while fostering partnerships that drive both local economic growth and global environmental stewardship.
Geomarket & Geotrade Chamber of Commerce
Geomarket & Geotrade, the Geoparks Chamber of Commerce, is an initiative dedicated to advocating trade and fostering collaboration within the geoparks network. Focused on the development and promotion of geoproducts, it brings together businesses, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to drive innovation in the creation of sustainable products and services derived from geoparks. Through strategic partnerships, networking opportunities, and the exchange of best practices, Geomarket & Geotrade aims to enhance the visibility and economic potential of geoparks, while ensuring that local communities benefit from the responsible use of their natural and cultural resources.
GeoXpo
GeoXpo is an annual Geopark Expo and Trade Show that brings together global stakeholders to showcase innovations, products, and services related to geoparks and sustainable tourism. The event serves as a dynamic platform for businesses, local communities, and organizations to connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities within the geopark sector. Through exhibits, presentations, and networking, GeoXpo highlights the latest developments in geotourism, conservation technologies, and eco-friendly products, fostering collaboration and supporting the growth of geoparks as key drivers of sustainable development and regional economic prosperity.
Geo Observatory
Geo Observatory is a Geopark Research and Advocacy Center dedicated to advancing scientific research, education, and advocacy within the geoparks network. The center focuses on enhancing understanding of geological heritage, sustainable development, and the impact of geoparks on local communities and the environment. Through research initiatives, educational programs, and policy advocacy, Geo Observatory works to promote the importance of geoparks as vital resources for both environmental conservation and economic growth, supporting evidence-based decision-making and the global advancement of geopark initiatives.
Geotourism Festival
The Geopark Tourism and Economic Festival, also known as the Geotourism and Geoeconomic Festival, is an annual event that celebrates the intersection of tourism, business, and sustainable development within geoparks. This vibrant festival showcases the cultural and economic potential of geoparks, bringing together tourism professionals, local communities, businesses, and policymakers to explore and promote geotourism opportunities. Through exhibitions, workshops, and cultural activities, the festival highlights innovative geoproducts, sustainable tourism practices, and the economic benefits that geoparks offer, while fostering collaboration and enhancing global awareness of the unique value of these natural and cultural heritage sites.
Geopreneur Incubators
Geopreneur Incubators is a Geoparks Startup and Business Incubation Initiative designed to support and nurture innovative businesses within the geoparks network. Focused on fostering entrepreneurship, the initiative provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help startups develop sustainable geoproducts and services. By connecting aspiring entrepreneurs with industry experts and stakeholders, Geopreneur Incubators aims to drive economic growth, promote sustainable development, and empower local communities through the creation of new, innovative ventures that capitalize on the unique opportunities offered by geoparks.
Geophilanthropy and Climate Impact Hub
The Geoparks Philanthropy, Climate, and Social Impact Hub, also known as the Geophilanthropy & Climate Hub, is a center dedicated to promoting social responsibility, climate action, and sustainable development within the geoparks network. The Hub focuses on leveraging philanthropy, community-driven initiatives, and climate-focused solutions to support geoparks in addressing environmental challenges and improving the well-being of local communities. Through collaboration with NGOs, businesses, and policymakers, the Geophilanthropy & Climate Hub drives carbon credit and environmental projects that foster resilience, enhance climate awareness, and promote social equity, all while ensuring the protection and sustainable management of the world’s geoparks.
Geoculture & the Arts
Geoculture & the Arts is a transformative program initiated by the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) to celebrate and promote cultural heritage through the arts. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural traditions, local crafts, and artistic expressions that are intertwined with the natural beauty of geoparks. By supporting artists, cultural projects, and collaborations, Geoculture & the Arts encourages the preservation of unique cultural identities, enhances community engagement, and creates opportunities for cultural exchange, all while ensuring that the arts contribute to sustainable tourism and the long-term vitality of geoparks.
Geopark Awards
The Global Geoparks Annual Awards, also known as the Geopark Awards, is a prestigious event that recognizes outstanding achievements in the geopark community. Celebrating innovation, sustainability, and excellence, the awards honor individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have made significant contributions to the development, conservation, and promotion of geoparks worldwide. The Geopark Awards highlight best practices in geotourism, environmental protection, community engagement, and economic growth, inspiring others to follow suit in preserving and enhancing the natural and cultural heritage of geoparks for future generations.
