The Agroecology Fund, founded in 2012, has seen significant growth in recent years, fueled by major donations from billionaire philanthropists like Laurene Powell Jobs and the Ballmer Group. Initially a small operation, the fund awarded $10.5 million in its first decade. However, since 2022, its grantmaking has nearly doubled due to increased donor interest, especially from tech billionaires focused on climate solutions.

Agroecology, which promotes sustainable agricultural practices rooted in Indigenous systems, has gained traction as a vital tool for addressing climate change. The fund’s backers include notable foundations like Waverley Street Foundation, Walton Family Foundation, and the Ballmers, among others. These funders are drawn by agroecology’s focus on both environmental sustainability and social equity.

As climate philanthropy grows, the Agroecology Fund continues to attract support from governments and development agencies, though it remains cautious about the sustainability of the current funding boom.