The Volgenau Climate Initiative (VCI) is a ten-year initiative funded by The Volgenau Foundation, designed to empower leadership networks to pursue and scale bold climate solutions, with a primary focus on nature-based strategies and solutions. 

 

 

Vision

VCI seeks to positively impact our climate and related ecological systems and our relationship with the land through improved practices, policies, and investments.

 
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mission

To forge trust-based leadership networks that innovate and scale bold climate strategies, with a primary focus on nature-based solutions.

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Vci approach

VCI leads with the conviction that diverse and proven leaders, when provided with the time, space, and resources to slow down and work collaboratively, can develop trusting relationships and fresh perspectives that result in innovative and collaborative strategies for impact. VCI provides seed funding and post-retreat coordination support for those strategies.

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A group of seven people sitting around a large outdoor table, engaged in a meeting or discussion, with red rock cliffs and green landscape in the background under a cloudy sky.

2025 Convenings

  • forest with old growth trees

    All Hands, All Lands: Forests in the Pacific Northwest

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  • seedlings illuminated by a line chart showing growth

    Financing Natural Climate Solutions

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  • hand holding a big fistful of soil

    State Leadership for Regenerative Agriculture

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  • sheep grazing in an orchard

    Strengthening Supply Chain Systems for Agroforestry and Reforestation

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  • sunset over mountains

    Nature and Climate as Economic Pillars for a New Appalachian Economy

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  • forest of trees with ferns lining the ground

    Public Lands Protection Strategies 

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What we have heard from VCI convening participants:

“This retreat was important for all the right reasons. It brought together an incredibly passionate group of leaders in their communities and work spaces. Our time here provided an opportunity to amplify actionable ideas that will help the climate.”