Business Plan Ecologists Without Borders -...

Business Plan

Ecologists Without Borders

Presented to

The EcoWB Advisory Committee

Presented by

Larry Dominguez

Eric Knudsen

Cleve Steward

DRAFT Version October 31, 2011

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Contact Information:

Ecologists Without Borders

6525 Arnesen Lane SW Olympia, WA 98512 360-915-4194 www.ecowb.org

Physical Address:

Union Building 120 East Union Avenue Olympia, WA 98501

Initial Governing Board Members:

Larry Dominguez

Tel. 360-915-4194 [email protected] Eric Knudsen

Tel. 360-424-5767 [email protected] Cleve Steward

Tel. 206-719-1260 [email protected]

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Ecologists Without Borders Business Plan Table of Contents

Section I – Overview of Organization..............................................................................1

By-Line .......................................................................................................................1

Logo............................................................................................................................1

Mission Statement .......................................................................................................2

Purpose of Organization ..............................................................................................2

Brief History ...............................................................................................................2

Guiding Principles.......................................................................................................3

Section II. Areas of Emphasis..........................................................................................3

Need and Opportunity .................................................................................................3

EcoWB and the Professional Community of Ecologists ...........................................4

Types of Services Provided .........................................................................................5

Approach.....................................................................................................................6

People .........................................................................................................................6

Section III. Organization Structure ..................................................................................7

Founding Group ..........................................................................................................7

Governing Board.........................................................................................................7

Committees .................................................................................................................8

Special Ambassador ....................................................................................................9

Volunteer Ecological Service Providers.......................................................................9

Staff ............................................................................................................................9

Section IV. Marketing and Communication and Outreach Plans ....................................10

Approach...................................................................................................................10

Section V. Financial Plan ..............................................................................................12

Financial Management Plan.......................................................................................12

Anticipated annual budget for three years ..................................................................12

Anticipated Income................................................................................................13 Anticipated Expenses.............................................................................................13

Fundraising ...............................................................................................................14

Grants and Large Contributions .............................................................................14

VI. Action Plan .............................................................................................................15

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Start-Up.....................................................................................................................15

VII. Operations..............................................................................................................16

Organizational Structure............................................................................................16

Project Selection and Management Structure.............................................................16

Contingencies............................................................................................................17

Section VIII. Attachments .............................................................................................18

A. Organizational Structure .......................................................................................18

B. Cover Sheet for Employee Handbook ...................................................................18

C. Conflict of Interest Statement................................................................................18

D. Project List ...........................................................................................................18

D. EcoWB Brochure..................................................................................................18

Ecologists Without Borders DRAFT Business Plan version 10-31-2011 1

Business Plan of Ecologists Without Borders October 31, 2011 Version

Section I – Overview of Organization

Ecologists without Borders (EcoWB) was recently founded to deliver expert services to at-risk areas of the world to ameliorate environmental problems stemming from natural or human causes. Our primary mission is to promote sustainability and improve societal welfare through the transfer and application of ecological knowledge and technology, and to financially support projects and activities that further these goals. We are concerned with the availability, quality and utilization of natural resources that affect the wellbeing of local communities and indigenous biota. Our focus is on the long-term sustainability of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and the human activities and natural processes that affect them. EcoWB is led by a highly experienced and dedicated Governing Board, Advisory Committee, and staff who are committed to the principles of sustainability and the success of the organization. EcoWB’s function is to match individuals who possess profound knowledge and experience in natural resource sciences and allied disciplines, and who are willing to volunteer their time and expertise, to projects and programs that would benefit from an infusion of ecological knowledge and initiative. The EcoWB expert network will comprise a multi-national cadre of biologists, foresters, ecologists, water resource engineers, hydrologists, planners, GIS professionals, and facilitators/ negotiators with experience in natural resource research and management. In addition to working directly with affected communities and local residents, EcoWB will partner with other organizations that provide humanitarian services, thereby enabling them to expand their capabilities, scope, and effectiveness. We would facilitate the mobilization, logistical support, and integration of EcoWB volunteers into these communities and organizations, as appropriate, to provide the hands-on training, technological assistance, and culturally sensitive education and outreach necessary to achieve project goals.

By-Line

“Helping people around the world restore and sustain natural environments.”

Logo

The EcoWB logo is intended to symbolically convey the mission and name of Ecologists Without Borders in an appealing and easily recognized brand. The green lettering and use of a leaf in place of the letter “O” are meant to suggest green and healthy environments. The lowercase acronym suggests EcoWB’s informal, accessible, and humble approach to reaching out to others in need.


Mission Statement

The mission of EcoWB is to promote environmental sustainability and improve societal welfare in at-risk areas of the world through the transfer and application of ecological knowledge and technology, and to financially support projects and activities that further these goals.

Purpose of Organization

The purposes for which EcoWB was formed are:

1. To provide, coordinate, facilitate, mobilize and direct technical expert ecological services to areas of the world that need to resolve environmental problems stemming from natural or human causes.

2. To create, promote, and support projects in fisheries and aquaculture, water and

mineral resources, agriculture, and wildlife since they match the principal needs of sustenance and communal welfare.

3. To create opportunities for the exchange of technical and other information on the

current status of such international resources and to provide decision-making support that assures the sustainability of these natural resources in perpetuity.

4. To actively consult with government and indigenous leaders of developing

nations to identify opportunities where support is needed.

5. To promote educational opportunities that foster environmental stewardship and enable learners to make informed decisions.

6. To promote an international professional network and create partnerships among

governmental policy makers, scientists, resource managers, indigenous people groups, conservationists, and other interest groups to facilitate the common understanding, agreement, and coordinated action necessary to achieve sustainability natural systems for the support of human and environmental welfare.

Brief History

The basic concept of EcoWB was conceived over a period of several years and proposed to fishery and aquatic ecology colleagues at the 2008 American Fisheries Society Chapter meeting in Shelton, WA. Based on the feedback and favorable response received at that meeting, the EcoWB concept was refined and presented at meetings of the International Fisheries, Bioengineering, Marine and Estuarine Science Sections of AFS during the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society in Pittsburgh, PA.


EcoWB obtained its Certificate of Incorporation from the Washington Secretary of State in May 2011, and subsequently applied for federal tax exempt status as a non-profit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States. With growing and continued interest from colleagues around the world and through the efforts of the co-founders group, EcoWB coordinated a symposium and reception at the 2011 Annual Meeting of the AFS in Seattle, WA. Through the auspices of the non-profit Sustainable Fisheries Foundation, EcoWB was awarded a startup grant from the proceeds of the 2011 AFS meeting. Grant funds are being used to develop organizational capacity, conduct marketing and outreach, and launch projects consistent with EcoWB’s purpose and mission.

Guiding Principles

Ecologists without Borders will provide short- or long-term ecological technical assistance in all aspects of ecosystem management; experts will develop programs or provide the consultation necessary to address urgent environmental issues where human welfare or natural resources are at risk. EcoWB will prioritize natural resource management projects impacting human welfare such as forestry, water supply, fisheries, wildlife, and habitat conservation and restoration projects will be selected to match the principal needs of sustenance and communal welfare of local communities. EcoWB will operate under the following set of principles:

● All activities will comply with the EcoWB By-Laws ● Apply the conservation value, Do No Harm, in all aspects of project development; ● Apply sound ecosystem management; ● Respect all people and cultures; ● Includes technical experts and leaders from throughout the world; ● Integrate with traditional and local ecological knowledge; ● Apply social responsibility: minimize carbon output; reuse, restore, recycle; and ● Promote successful, steady-state economies; ● Apply the corporate value, Integrity Above Reproach, in all aspects of operations

and personal conduct

Section II. Areas of Emphasis

Need and Opportunity

Ecologists Without Borders will fill an important niche in the global array of NGOs by supplying technical expertise to restore and maintain ecological infrastructure for human benefits. NGOs serving the environment or landscape ecology address special project support, research, species-specific interests, or large-scale topics addressing natural processes such as global environmental change, energy resources, or marine resources. EcoWB will provide the “grout” necessary for a mosaic of these services. By enlisting and creating a vast network of professionals, groups can utilize these personnel and


technical resources to fulfill ongoing project needs, enhance existing projects, or address problems that have always been a part of an organization’s objectives but have remained on the fringe of implementing. The ecological services provided by EcoWB will allow project sponsors to incorporate considerations for larger ecosystem benefits or impacts. There are many issues that are relevant to an organization’s cause but for various reasons have been unable to secure the technical resources to fulfill those objectives. There are a variety of related NGOs with which EcoWB will partner and collaborate as necessary to fulfill our mission and goals while aiming to fulfill the mission and goals of partners. Instituting change in regards to environmental management and stewardship necessitates the involvement of the economy, community and science. EcoWB, with ecosystem management principles as a core guidance mechanism, will incorporate this triad of influences to institute change where appropriate for environmental and social welfare (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Conceptualization of the role that ecosystem management components play in

efforts to improve the general welfare of the environment and people.

EcoWB and the Professional Community of Ecologists

• EcoWB provides an infrastructure for facilitating delivery of technical services

• Identify needs for EcoWB services directly or in cooperation with partnering organizations

• Maintain a broad ecological focus – ecosystem/landscape level thinking, watershed approach

• Try to be proactive to prevent environmental damage

• EcoWB can address environmental issues both proactively and reactively.

• Professional, credible, scientific, non-aligned, non-advocacy of ideals focusing on understanding ecosystem function and resolving how functional ecosystems can be attained in instances of unavoidable development or resource extraction.

• We have less bureaucratic constraints than many other organizations

• Work closely with local governments and communities to facilitate the transfer of information


How EcoWB Fits in the Global Community

• Durable change is only possible when key community and science-based strategies work with economics to create ecosystem management solutions that work today and into the future.

o World population is 7 billion and will increase to 9 billion by 2044, up from 6 billion in 1999 , placing immense stresses on already stressed natural and social environments.

• Focus on Relationships: We listen. o The size and flexibility of EcoWB permits closer coordination and

improved communications between EcoWB, clients and other partners.

• Focus on Community: We empower. o All projects must connect with the end-user which is a “community” that

exists at some scale created by the project. o Understanding the social and political frameworks are essential

components to any viable project. o Without community support, durable change is impossible.

• Recognize that local, national and international economics all play key roles in , any successful project.

o Principal needs of sustenance and communal welfare are only possible if basic economic needs can be sustained.

• EcoWB has the scientific and technical resources to complete projects but will always seek collaborative partnerships with other institutions, both private and/or governmental.

Types of Services Provided

Local communities and governments often lack the expertise and financial resources necessary to resolve complex, expensive, or otherwise intractable social, ecological or natural resource management problems. EcoWB will develop a network of international resource professionals to fill these increasing needs. Services

a. Identify ecological infrastructure needs with local communities and governments of most need – prioritize activities

b. Emphasize both ecological infrastructure and community needs. c. Working with governmental or non-governmental organizations involved in

extension work d. Working with existing NGOs that include (or wish to include) habitat, water,

fisheries, and/or wildlife management in their portfolio by assisting in general guidance, project design, management and evaluation.


e. Providing technical, economic and sociological expertise, either directly or indirectly through existing NGOs or other partners.

f. Providing fisheries project guidance on processing and marketing that takes account of real (not imaginary) local and wider markets.

g. Engaging and educating on the benefits of eco-tourism. h. Providing training in the general management and operation of small enterprises

that rely on or promote ecological stability. i. Promoting research necessary for local decisions. j. Applying research results whose implementation is constrained by lack of training

and/or extension. k. Working with local and national government agencies to ensure a favorable micro

and macro-economic and legal environments for ecological infrastructure sustainability.

l. Increasing the political and social visibility of local people by providing a voice for small-scale enterprises that depend on environmental stability.

Approach

EcoWB envisions a three part operations systems that serves all of EcoWB primary goals. Project collaborators can take either of these fundamentally different approaches to develop projects or engage potential cooperators with EcoWB facilitation. EcoWB: 1) provide project information in which technical expertise is solicited from EcoWB; 2) provide an expert profile in which other groups can query to assign to projects, and 3) engage EcoWB staff or volunteers with ideas for solving environmental problems and collaborate to seek funding. Collectively, these approaches are facilitated by EcoWB’s web-based PACS (Project Assistance, Collaboration, Solicitation) system.1

Once project development initiates, an assigned EcoWB Project Manager or facilitator can continue to work with project leaders in assisting with international contacts, stateside and in-country travel and accommodations logistics, references for appropriate technology, regional project history, legal issues, in-country environmental compliance, government relations, printing and publishing, and other factors that contribute to efficient, high quality, and cost-effective projects.

People

Professionals involved in EcoWB, whether on the staff or volunteers, are currently employed in, or retired from, the public or private sectors in the disciplines of ecology, forestry, fisheries, wildlife, watershed, and/or habitat management. Some are members of existing fishery, aquatic, wildlife, or other professional societies, such as the American Fisheries Society, American Water Resources Association, Estuarine Research Society,

1 PACS is a draft concept and term. Further discussion is needed for this fundamental framework. EcoWB desires to promote their available expertise but do not want to develop the image of the middle man. One of the strengths of EcoWB facilitation and continued involvement with projects, once fostered, will be in the high level of credibility that comes with association and the long-term accountability and emphasis of self-sustaining projects.


and Ecological Society of America. Management experience (in governmental and non-governmental organizations or in commercial companies, or in research and training) is a pre-requisite for those working as trustees or advisers to EcoWB. Experience in forestry, ecology, wildlife, fishery or aquatic resources, earth sciences, watershed management, or habitat management is desirable for volunteers; however, expertise in other critical disciplines, such as sociology, economics, and business management, will also be helpful at times. Those involved in EcoWB are working in their individual independent capacity, either as paid staff, or under a voluntary basis. Volunteers are usually provided stipends and travel expenses from funded projects. Board members, EcoWB staff, and technical advisory group members who are employed by non-EcoWB organizations do not seek to promote the specific aims of their employers or clients. Similarly, the views that they provide in helping EcoWB shall not be construed by others as representing the official stance of their existing employers or clients.

Section III. Organization Structure

A preliminary organizational chart is presented as Attachment A. Consideration is made for two key concepts – ensuring original vision can be preserved and adapted to changing organization capacity and global needs and the ability of the Advisory Committee to continue broad perspective input and expertise to the Board. EcoWB personnel and volunteers will be guided by the EcoWB Employee and Volunteer Handbook under development (introduction page included as Attachment B).

Founding Group

The Founding Group established the concepts and original organization of EcoWB. They continue to be involved in all aspects of EcoWB organization. Based on the timeline of basic organizational development and initial concepts, the chief founder of EcoWB is Lawrence G. Dominguez and Co-founders are E. Eric Knudsen, and Cleveland R. Steward. Collectively they are the Founding Group.

Governing Board

A Governing Board comprising elected Directors will manage the affairs of EcoWB consistent with the organization’s mission and governing documents. The Board will be able to (1) amend EcoWB’s Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation; (2) elect or remove members of the Board; (3) create or terminate, as appropriate, certain EcoWB policies, activities and transactions, including contracts and agreements, and asset purchases and sales; (4) hire, supervise, and discharge the Executive Director, and (5) dissolve EcoWB at any time, pay off its debts and liabilities, and distribute its assets, as provided for in its Articles of Incorporation.


The Governing Board will initially consist of the three EcoWB co-founders Dominguez, Knudsen, and Steward. No fewer than six additional people will be appointed to the Board for 2012. From this date forward, the terms of approximately one third of the Directors will expire at the end of each year. The maximum size of the Governing Board will be 15 Directors. Newly elected Directors will serve 3-year terms unless they choose to resign or are voted off the Board.

Committees

The Governing Board will appoint various committees to deliberate and take action on behalf of EcoWB. Each committee will be chaired by a Board member, who can appoint individuals to serve on the committee. At the outset, five standing committees are recommended to serve the needs of the organization: Executive Committee: The Executive Committee is made up of the President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Governing Board. This committee will oversee the general operation of EcoWB on an ongoing basis, and act on behalf of the Board subject to the Board’s approval. Advisory Committee (Board): The Advisory Committee is a group of highly experienced and motivated individuals who will meet regularly and assist the Governing Board in the development of EcoWB policy, governance, short-term priorities, long-range strategy, and other issues related to the purpose, organization, and operation of EcoWB. The Committee will advise the Board on the strategic, technical, and management means of achieving the organization’s objectives. They will also provide assistance in identifying initial make-up and membership of the Board of Directors. Finance Committee: The Finance Committee will prepare an annual budget, develop cost estimates for individual projects, monitor income and expenses, and report on the current financial status of EcoWB on an ongoing basis. The Committee will identify potential sources and appropriate strategies for securing funding for EcoWB operations and projects, and will participate in the development of grant applications and contacting potential sources of funding. Projects Committee: The Projects Committee will provide advice and guidance on EcoWB projects, initiatives, and field activities, including opportunities for cooperative programs with existing NGOs. The Project Committee will identify criteria for evaluating and selecting EcoWB projects, and be empowered to bring project recommendations to the Board for approval. They will also assist the Board in monitoring and evaluating the work of EcoWB.


Special Ambassador

Special Ambassadors are notable spokespeople or advocates who are not necessarily Board members. Their involvement will help increase visibility and recognition for EcoWB.

Volunteer Ecological Service Providers

The heart of EcoWB is the cadre of volunteer professional experts who implement EcoWB objectives on-the-ground in host countries. Volunteers may be currently employed professionals on sabbatical, retired experts, or students in ecological disciplines. Volunteer assignments will range from short-term consulting visits to longer-term activities in the host countries working directly with local people to implement ecological restoration.

Staff

The routine operations of EcoWB will be managed by paid professional staff.

a. Executive Director

The Executive Director is hired at the discretion of the Governing Board and is responsible for the successful operation of EcoWB. b. Program and Operations Director The Program and Operations Director serves as the Deputy Executive Director and is responsible for implementing the EcoWB programs at all levels. This position supervises the Regional Operations Managers and the Discipline Specialists. c. Financial and Fundraising Director The Financial and Fundraising Director is responsible for fiscal planning and financial administration of EcoWB. This position, and any necessary staff or contractors, is also responsible for successful fundraising for EcoWB. d. Regional Operations Managers: NA, Central and SA, Eurasia, Africa, Australia and Indo-Pacific Islands Regional Operations Managers will be responsible for coordinating with host countries and local governments to introduce EcoWB to host countries, identify local needs for EcoWB services, and to implement projects. They may delegate coordination to other staff and/or to senior volunteers. e. Discipline Specialists: Ecology, watershed, forestry, wildlife, and fisheries discipline specialists will work together as necessary to advise the Regional Operations Managers on the most effective implementation of specific projects. They will make recommendations for the numbers and types of volunteers required for successful project completion. f. Administrative staff

Staff will be hired when there is a clear need for long-term, routine support of the above positions. Every effort will be made to utilize volunteers whenever possible.


Section IV. Marketing and Communication and Outreach Plans

EcoWB envisions productions of separate Marketing and Communications and Outreach Plans to accompany this Business Plan. Our current Marketing goals include:

a. Increase communications to interested parties b. Upgrade website: create easy user access c. Provide social media connectivity to website d. Professional education - e. Form affiliations and partnerships f. Increase visibility

Our current Communication and Outreach goals include:

a. Communication to professional organizations b. Publish updated brochures and sponsor packets c. Correspondence and key individuals and leaders in potential host countries d. Presence at regional and global conferences when feasible e. Disseminate information on EcoWB values f. Form affiliations and partnerships g. Increase visibility

Approach

Marketing and Communication and Outreach planning contain many overlapping areas in these initial stages. Eventually, as our client and cooperator base develops, we will be able to identify sector needs and adjust marketing and communication tools appropriately. Key points for consideration in the development of web-based, printed, and consistent communication message among EcoWB partners include the following:

• Communicate to key individuals and leaders in host countries;

• Identify parties with startup expertise that would be willing to help roll-out EcoWB;

• Expand web site with links to social media;

• Expand personal and professional connections through conferences and workshops;

• Mail Solicitations: Direct mail campaigns will be conducted periodically by EcoWB. A mail out will occur in November 2011 to a targeted distribution (<200 pieces) using a recommended mail list from Advisory Committee members including personal, organization, agency and corporate contacts. An expanded mail out will occur in March 2012 with content modifications based on the initial


mail out. Further research is necessary to estimate the potential gain versus the time and effort of mailouts.

• E-mail Solicitations: EcoWB maintains a growing list of interested parties gathered through meetings and personal communication. EcoWB will prepare newsletters and updates that identify donation opportunities; Other environmental –related list serves could be utilized such as American Fisheries Society, Ecological Society of America, American Water Resources Association;

• Personal Solicitations: EcoWB Co-Founders, Board Members, Staff, and Members-at large maintain extensive professional networks throughout the world.

o Promoting EcoWB through personal and professional relationships in

regards to institutional endorsements and fundraising will be mainstay practices.

o Ask for the permission to get and use quotes from supportive and

influential parties;

• Foundation Grant Solicitations: EcoWB will actively seek foundation grant solicitations. Through Library and Internet-based research, EcoWB will develop a grant database, and utilize grant search engines, to determine the appropriateness of Foundation Grants. Environment and Social Welfare Grant opportunities are abundant and use of foundation grants will be a mainstay practice;

• Phone Solicitations: During EcoWB startup, phone solicitation will occur via personal calls not from telemarketing services. Contacts will be directed at known entities and in markets conducting similar services where EcoWB services will enhance other’s service areas;

• Accept Donations on Website: EcoWB maintains a PayPal Account that will be a direct deposit to a Seattle-based bank. The account is set up under the name of Ecologists Without Borders (EIN 43-3628233, UBI 603-113-057), and used solely for the business of EcoWB;

• Government Grant Solicitations: On occasion, government grants will be independently pursued, or sought in cooperation with partners. Government grant opportunities sought through Foundation Center databases will be evaluated and pursued according to the potential for funding; and

• EcoWB may host fundraising events such as at receptions or as part of conferences or tradeshows.


o EcoWB will also promote their activities at professional meetings which may result in donations from professional organizations, individuals, or corporations.

o EcoWB may also sell merchandise such as T-shirts and hats that have some, but not substantial fundraising potential.

Section V. Financial Plan

EcoWB will be managed with the utmost of financial integrity and care, following all customary fiscal policies and procedures and the EcoWB by-laws. The overall financial goal of EcoWB is to always maintain financial solvency and to maximize its financial resources for achieving the EcoWB mission.

Financial Management Plan

A full and detailed EcoWB financial management plan will be developed to include costs to launch, operate, market, and finance the EcoWB non-profit operations, along with conservative estimates of revenue for three years. The plan will also include a break-even analysis. The financial management plan will be reviewed and revised annually in the first three years, and then every five years thereafter.

Anticipated annual budget for three years

EcoWB will grow gradually over the years, from initial start-up in 2011 to fully functioning by 2013 and beyond. A tentative, simplified, 3-year budget is shown in Table 2. EcoWB will be managed to maximize its “on-the-ground” services. The long-term goal of EcoWB is that, when fully functioning, the expense distribution will be:

Project implementation 80% Fundraising 10% Administration 10%

This distribution will initially exhibit higher proportions in fundraising and administration until large grants and contributions, as well as individual donation patterns, are fully mature. The proportion of the budget devoted to projects will gradually increase, as shown in Table 2, from 11% in 2011, to 60% in 2012, to 68% in 2013 and higher in subsequent years.


Table 2. Preliminary simplified 3-year budget for EcoWB. Income

Gifts, grants, and contributions 40000 250000 465000

Membership fees received 0 0 0

Gross investment income 100 200 300

Net unrelated business income 0 0 0

Taxes levied for your benefit 0 0 0

Sales of merchandise 1500 3000

Other revenue 0 400 400

Total Revenue 40100 252100 468700

Expenses

Fundraising expenses 6000 20000 40000

Compensation of officers, directors, and trustees0 20000 20000

Other salaries and wages 27000 55000 75000

Interest expense 0 250 350

Occupancy (rent, utilities, etc.) 0 6000 10000

Depreciation and depletion 0 0 0

Professional fees 0 0 0

Program services 4500 150000 320000

Total expenses 37500 251250 465350

Net Balance 2600 850 3350

Anticipated Income

Income will be derived the various sources shown in Figure 3, and described in further detail below under fundraising. In general, it is anticipated that EcoWB will provide services that are attractive to major philanthropic foundations and therefore a majority of income will come in the form of grants from foundations and government agencies. EcoWB will also be supported through contributions from individual donors. Partner organizations benefitting from EcoWB services will also support EcoWB activities. Lastly, a small amount of funding is expected from sales of EcoWB logo items.

EcoWB Income Sources

Grants

Contributions

Partners

Sales

Figure 3. Estimated proportion of EcoWB income sources.

Anticipated Expenses


As seen in Table 2, operating expenses will gradually increase as EcoWB expands its organization, staff is hired, and projects are implemented. The Executive Director will be the first staff position to be filled, followed by one or more administrative staff members. As financial conditions warrant, additional staff will be added according to the staffing plan outlined in the “People” section of this Plan. Additional expenses will include fundraising costs, rent, and other operating expenses.

Fundraising

The vast majority of EcoWB income will come from grants, contributions, donations, and memberships, with a very small percentage deriving from sales of merchandise. Several early fundraising programs will emphasize “founding donors” concepts.

Grants and Large Contributions

Grants and large contributions will comprise the largest proportion of EcoWB income. These funds will be solicited from several related but somewhat different sources all requiring significant fundraising activities of EcoWB staff and Board members. All grantors and donors will be given recognition in accordance with their contribution levels. EcoWB maintains spreadsheet information of contacts and funding sources and has evaluated grant sources according to several criteria including: typical grants sizes, similarity of past awards to EcoWB type projects, timeline criteria, existence of personal relationship within the funding organization. Philanthropic Foundations. - Emphasis will be made here to seek funding that supports establishment of EcoWB as an organization in contrast to seeking project-specific support. Corporate Donors.- Expected to provide significant funding and may be especially interested in early funding as “founding corporate sponsors”. Government Agencies.- Several U.S. and other government agencies, such as USAID and the United Nations are expected to be attracted to EcoWB activities so will be solicited for future funding. Partner Organizations.- Partner organizations, such as Drs Without Borders, Engineers Without Borders, and World Wildlife Fund may be interested in supporting EcoWB when EcoWB activities provide fundamental assistance to meet their respective missions. Individual Donors and Members

Because EcoWB is appealing to most people who learn of its mission, a significant proportion of future funding will likely come from individual donations and memberships. Emphasis will be placed on using electronic ad social media for fundraising and membership activities to minimize overhead and carbon footprint. Many of these activities are addressed in the marketing, outreach, and communication section above.


Individual Donations.- On line contributions will be sought through the EcoWB web site, e.g., via PayPal, and will be advertised through email and other social media announcements. Bequests.- Opportunities to bequeath portions of estates will be solicited from individuals through various electronic and social media promotional information. Memberships.- Many individuals may be attracted to be directly affiliated with EcoWB via annual memberships. Memberships will be accepted on-line only and will provide an e-newsletter to all members. All EcoWB Board and Committee members will be encouraged to be members. Membership levels are suggested at the following levels. All other donors will be recognized under Grants, Sponsorships, Donors, and Bequests. Expert members (professional, student, and retired volunteers) will be given special recognition (and their sign-up form will solicit information about their expertise and interests).

Individual - $25 Family - $50 Sustaining -- $100 or more Expert members – individual - $25 Expert members – family - $50 Expert members -- sustaining -- $100 or more

Sales. - EcoWB logo items of highly sustainable materials and responsibly-produced will be available for sale to members and the public.

VI. Action Plan The Action Plan contains past and ongoing activities that ensure the progress and viability of EcoWB establishment is met.

Start-Up

Incorporation

EcoWB was incorporated in the state of Washington on May 12, 2011. By-Laws

By-laws have been drafted and will be reviewed by Advisory Committee in Fall 2011. Tax-Exemption

An application for tax exempt status as a 501(c)3 no-profit organization was filed with the IRS on October 27, 2011 Organize and meet with Advisory Group

Seek start-up funds – Start fundraising prior to 501(c)3, pending etc. Continue fundraising for long-term support


Critical to the momentum of EcoWB during start-up is securing long –term financial support. Potential funding partners will be identified through several concurrent activities as research and categorization continues about related organizations, partners, collaborators, funders and/or governments. Organize Board of Directors

3 existing board members with the help of the Advisory Committee will select an additional 6 board members through 2012. Establish start-up home office

EcoWB has established physical offices in downtown Olympia at 2 key locations, The Nature Conservancy office and PACLAND Engineering. Combined services provided by both offices include copying and printing, network access, phone service, and connectivity to non-profit and corporate international professional networks. Combined costs are $200.00/month and provide very cost-effective administration centers during the startup period.

VII. Operations EcoWB operational structure will be centralized within the United States. As EcoWB projects and programs expand worldwide, there may be decentralized components of the operational structure for projects that are long-term or can maintain foreign project managers, facilities, or institutions that could be administrated independently.

Organizational Structure

Organizationally, This will be an adaptive structure that fits best with the personnel, region, and cultures of the area where EcoWB is established. During initial EcoWB development, there will be a highly centralized approach to ensure the vision, goals, objectives and ethics are embedded in the organization and that management principles and operations framework are well-established. EcoWB anticipates the need for a flexible system that can accommodate the established management schemes of other organizations.

Project Selection and Management Structure

Ecologists Without Borders will maintain distinction among the many facets of international project work by balancing proven project selection criteria with project or program investments. Project or program investments are ventures that may be new concepts that have been demonstrated successfully in other regions but contain a certain level of calculated risk for success in new areas. These type of criteria support the innovative and entrepreneurial characteristics of communities and are consistent with EcoWB guiding principles of integrating science-based expertise and ecosystem concepts with traditional and local ecological knowledge. Some criteria for EcoWB project selection and management include: a. Promoting sustainable and responsible forms of development.


b. Insistence that independent economic viability is ensured post-project. c. Working for long-term stability, not just short-term relief. d. Projects will undergo a candidacy period prior to pursuing and may include some or all of the following actions: site assessments, pre-project proposal including budgets, design and budgeting, conferencing with partners, and background information on targeted grants. e. Project management process will have oversight by the Program/Project Committee or designated regional or project managers. f. Project Committee evaluation One of the first tasks of the Project/Program Committee will be to develop a project development and selection plan. This document will include topics such as:

• establishing initial criteria for projects,

• how to initiate and organize meetings/correspondences with partner organizations

• identifying personnel roles and specific projects, and

• organizing a volunteer system. There are several web-page based application models used by organizations to facilitate project submittals, personnel profiles, and proposal management.

Contingencies

Initial start-up can be the most difficult period for establishing non-profit organizations in general and the progress of establishment can be limited to concept and initial planning for extended periods. EcoWB has experienced similar fate until recent momentum and committed partners have helped established EcoWB into a viable organization. The challenge remains that much, if not all, of the work is conducted on a voluntary basis and for an organization with the scale of vision and mission of EcoWB, it is essential to secure funding to assist in establishing the organization. Some funding was attained through a small grant from the successful Seattle 2011 AFS meeting which will help build on the interest and momentum captured there. However, until a regular funding base is established, EcoWB proposes contingency plans to ensure the basics of establishment occur. 2011

Initial funding is to be spent primarily on fundraising, partnership development, marketing, with a prospect of the ability to have 3 FTE equivalents by Fall of 2012. A fundamental organizational model is the establishment of facilitating information and network connections and/or engaging in pro-active project recruitment with the EcoWB brand. To avoid setbacks in early 2012, EcoWB must put a large effort into a professional brand and high quality marketing plan and products including fundraising packets, systematic contact of partnering organizations, list serve, and social networking for establishing global presence.


2012

Should 4th quarter 2011 and first 2 quarters of 2012 efforts in fundraising not achieve goals, or not raise enough support for program development expenses, the following should be expected: 1) Work will continue on a volunteer basis 2) Personal equipment and fiscal resources will continue to be invested 3) EcoWB co-founders will determine the feasibility of a start-up loan to continue compensatory efforts for organization development based on likelihood of success. EcoWB proposes that between one and two years be allotted for a determination of organizational “Likelihood of Success”. This determination could also be made by Advisory Committee members and/or a organizational consultant.

Section VIII. Attachments

A. Organizational Structure

B. Cover Sheet for Employee Handbook

C. Conflict of Interest Statement

D. Project List

D. EcoWB Brochure


Attachment A DRAFT Organizational Chart


Attachment B Ecologists Without Borders Employee and Volunteer Handbook (Intro Page)

EMPLOYEE AND VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION

About this Handbook

This handbook is expressly intended for the use of the employees and volunteers

of Ecologists Without Borders (hereinafter referred to as “EcoWB)”. This handbook sets

forth basic policies and guidelines for employee and volunteer conduct and also

contains important summary information regarding employee benefits.

Unless otherwise specified, the benefits described in this handbook apply only to

regular, eligible employees of EcoWB. By contrast, the policies apply to all employees,

contractors, volunteers - regular full time, regular part time, and temporary.

In all cases of interpretation of this handbook, Governing Board decisions are final.

EcoWB reserves the right to change or delete any portion of this handbook at its

sole discretion, without prior notice. Nothing contained within this handbook is

intended to create a contract for employment, expressed or implied, nor a guarantee of

continued employment for a specific duration.

The employee/volunteer agrees that employment is at will and EcoWB expressly

reserves the right to discharge the employee at any time for any reason whatsoever,

with or without cause, and with or without notice. An EcoWB affiliate is an ambassador

of goodwill, their organization, and their home country. Although this handbook is not

comprehensive in manners concerning conduct and ethics, EcoWB affiliates are

expected to conduct all business in the highest moral and ethical standards and hold

host country traditions, beliefs, and government structure to the highest regard.

Nothing in this handbook or EcoWB’s policies, practices, or procedures shall

confer upon the employee any right to continued employment.


Attachment C Conflict of Interest Statement


Attachment D Potential Project List North Cambodia. Sustainable Aquaculture in Rural Cambodia: Demonstration of Small-Scale, Low-Cost Fish Culture. Work with affiliates Engineers Without Borders to assess site and design aquaculture and integrated agriculture facility. The project will demonstrate how a small-scale private aquaculture system can be developed at low cost with minimal environmental impact within a remote, poverty stricken area of Cambodia. The project will be designed so that it can be replicated by other farmers in the region. EcoWB will provide technical and financial support to Kachhel in order to ensure successful project implementation, including designing the facility, reusing or disposing of fish waste, securing production inputs, and marketing the final product. The results of the project will be widely disseminated both locally and via the internet. Special care will be taken to promote recycling and avoid environmental degradation and pollution through proper management and application of technology. Suva, Fiji. Homes of Hope Aquaculture and Integrated Agriculture Project. Completed site design work for series of fish ponds and agriculture area using hydroponic techniques. Need for final design assistance, equipment purchase and training for multi-pond management. 1700 miles west of Australia is located near the coast in southeast Fiji. Fijiian customary fishing use (qoliqoli) and commercial fishing have impacted the nearshore fisheries. While being encouraged by fishery regulators to fish further offshore, inland freshwater aquaculture development is a viable practice and is growing, often offering better market prices than reef-caught fish according to regional fishery evaluations. This location serves as a means to train other people how to construct and manage their own ponds for the time when they leave the Center. It can demonstrate within the main Fiji archipelago (about 844 islands/islets) the feasibility of non-governmental or institutional ponds and how appropriate technology is readily available for persons desiring to enter the business of aquaculture Sinaloa, Mexico Gulf of California. A scientific research project of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, headed by Dr. Felipe Amezcua The project title is “The importance of the mangrove and coastal ecosystems in the life cycle of fish and macroinvertebrates: sources and pathways of energy, ecosystem structure patterns, spatial distribution, food webs, and transfer of contaminants”. Dr. Eric Knudsen of EcoWB is partnering on this project to provide technical advice and consultation on experimental design. Results from this project will influence local habitat management, as well Gulf of California fisheries harvest management decisions. Thus far, EcoWB has provided technical consultation and facilitated the acquisition of $10,000 for fish and shrimp tagging equipment. This project includes a number of undergraduate and graduate students who will be expanding on the EcoWB technology transfer into their future fisheries research and management. Southeast Iraq. Mesopotamian Marshlands. Contact Azzam Alwash, Director of Nature Iraq. Large scale project on Avian conservation and water management. http://www.iraqfoundation.org/projects_new/edenagain/index.html http://www.iraqfoundation.org/edenagain/publications/pdfs/newslet603.pdf


Attachment E. Ecologists Without Borders Brochure


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