A Conversation with Donativos Ambientales Ford

The Donativos Ambientales Ford program supports community projects led by nonprofit organizations in Puerto Rico, focused on environmental protection and sustainable development. With 25 years of experience, it has impacted thousands of people, strengthening initiatives that benefit the social and economic development of communities.

We spoke with them about their work, the challenges facing the nonprofit sector on the island, and what brought them to the Puerto Rico Nonprofit Summit.

Tell us about your program: who are you and how do you serve communities in Puerto Rico?

The Donativos Ambientales Ford program supports community projects led by nonprofit organizations in Puerto Rico, focused on environmental protection and sustainable development. With 25 years of experience, it has impacted thousands of people, strengthening initiatives that benefit the social and economic development of communities.

What has been one of the most significant impacts you've achieved in the nonprofit sector or in the communities you support?

The continuous support of hundreds of environmental projects with an investment of more than $2.2 million over 25 years. In 2024 alone, more than 20,000 people directly benefited, strengthening communities and promoting environmental conservation. Our program has also consolidated alliances and strengthened the visibility of organizations, which has boosted their development.

From your perspective, what is the greatest challenge facing nonprofit organizations in Puerto Rico today?

The most evident challenge is the lack of financial resources to develop and sustain their projects. But in many cases, we also find a lack of experience and infrastructure to bring visibility to their efforts, as well as the need for adequate resources to develop proposals that demonstrate planning and the effective achievement of objectives. Our program seeks to support organizations in these areas.

How do you envision the future of the nonprofit sector on the island in the coming years?

We envision a more resilient, collaborative, and innovative nonprofit sector, with greater access to resources and strategic alliances. The recognition of the leading role of the third sector in the recovery and reconstruction of Puerto Rico, which has grown stronger in recent years, can mean an opportunity for greater support and visibility.

Why did you decide to be part of the Puerto Rico Nonprofit Summit, and what does this space mean to you?

Participating in the Puerto Rico Nonprofit Summit is a key opportunity to connect with organizations leading environmental and community projects that require financial support to continue their efforts. This space allows us to drive sustainability on the island and strengthen our collective impact.

How can nonprofit organizations benefit from what you offer?

Legally established nonprofit organizations with their own bank account can participate in our call for proposals and, if selected as winners, access financial support to strengthen and expand their environmental community projects. They only need to complete the application form available at DonativosAmbientalesFord.com by May 29, 2026.

We thank Donativos Ambientales Ford for being part of this effort and for their commitment to strengthening the nonprofit ecosystem in Puerto Rico.