GIAC

Leading the Future of the Global Geopark Economic and Community DEVELOPMENT

The Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) is a global initiative aimed at supporting the sustainable development and economic growth of UNESCO Global Geoparks. As geoparks play a vital role in preserving geological heritage, promoting sustainable tourism, and supporting local communities, the GIAC focuses on facilitating investments to local businesses that align with these objectives. The council works to connect geoparks with investors, businesses, and organizations that can contribute to the parks’ long-term success while ensuring that environmental and social sustainability remains at the forefront. By fostering collaboration between local stakeholders and external investors, the GIAC helps unlock the economic potential of geoparks while preserving their natural and cultural resources.

The mission of the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council is to provide expert advice and guidance on funding opportunities, investment strategies, and business models that benefit both geoparks and local communities. By offering a platform for knowledge exchange, GIAC seeks to ensure that investments support sustainable development initiatives such as infrastructure improvement, education, research, and responsible tourism. This advisory body not only assists geoparks in attracting financial support but also works to establish best practices for investment in geotourism and related sectors, ultimately enhancing the resilience and growth of UNESCO Global Geoparks across the globe.

Business Advisory Council

The GIAC Business Advisory is a specialized unit under the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) that provides expert guidance and strategic advice to investors, businesses, and geopark management teams. The committee is composed of professionals with expertise in areas such as geotourism, sustainable development, environmental conservation, and investment strategies. Its role is to ensure that investments and business practices within UNESCO Global Geoparks align with the principles of sustainability, community involvement, and geological preservation. By offering tailored advice, the committee helps stakeholders navigate complex decisions and fosters partnerships that contribute to the long-term success and viability of geoparks.

As trusted advisors, the GIAC Business Advisory assists in identifying investment opportunities that will enhance the economic, environmental, and social outcomes of geoparks. Whether it involves infrastructure development, creating educational programs, or promoting responsible tourism, the committee works closely with geopark management teams and external partners to implement best practices. By leveraging its collective knowledge, the Advisory Committee plays a pivotal role in helping geoparks maximize their potential while maintaining a balance between economic growth and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. Through its work, the committee supports the creation of sustainable, innovative solutions that benefit both local communities and the global geoconservation effort.

Geoparks Business Council

The Geoparks Business Council is another key unit under the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC), designed to foster collaboration between the private sector and UNESCO Global Geoparks. This council brings together businesses, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who are interested in investing in or supporting sustainable initiatives within geoparks. The Geoparks Business Council serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, developing partnerships, and creating innovative business models that promote responsible tourism, local enterprise, and environmental stewardship within geoparks. By facilitating the growth of sustainable business ventures that benefit both local communities and geopark conservation efforts, the council plays an essential role in driving the economic development of these unique heritage sites, ensuring that growth is aligned with the values of sustainability and geodiversity preservation.

Heritage Investors Network

The Heritage Investors Network is a dynamic unit within the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council (GIAC) that connects investors with opportunities in UNESCO Global Geoparks. This network serves as a platform for private investors, financial institutions, and development agencies interested in supporting the sustainable growth of geoparks through responsible investments. By fostering collaboration between investors and geopark management teams, the Investors Network ensures that funding is directed toward projects that enhance conservation efforts, promote sustainable tourism, and strengthen local economies. Through this network, investors gain access to a range of opportunities that align with both financial objectives and social responsibility, helping to ensure that the benefits of investment are shared equitably with local communities while preserving the integrity of the geoparks’ natural and cultural heritage.

Want to Learn More?

Visit the Geoparks Investment Advisory Council Website via the link below.