| Overview : Belize is a natural resource-based economy. Fisheries in 2015 contributed 17% to the Belizean economy. Belize’s fisheries sector supports the livelihoods of an estimated 3,000 artisanal or small-scale fishers. The country’s coast and seascape feature also support a vibrant tourism sector which is the largest contributor to national GDP and the largest creator of jobs in Belize. Belize’s coastal and marine resources, however, are under significant treats of overexploitation and unsustainable use, degradation due to the stresses of development and pollution. These fragile resources now also face emerging threats of climate change. The proposed initiative supports a community approach to conservation and seascape management. The goal of the OAK Regranting Partnership initiative was designed to utilize the small granting modality for fund disbursement. The project seeks to support the participation of local communities in conservation and shared governance of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System World Heritage Site. The initiative stipulated the use of OAK foundation funds for the co-financing of community small grants in support of the conservation and sustainable use of the resources. The Small granting window supports projects that adopt community landscape and seascape approach to conservation. Priority actions in regranting processes included the: - Consolidation and empowerment of a local CSO network contributing to sustainable growth and development;
- Enhanced sustainability of marine and coastal ecosystems which support national development, local livelihoods and provision of environmental services;
- Entrepreneurial and innovative actions expanding opportunities for sustainable livelihoods of vulnerable and marginalized coastal communities.
The evaluation will be conducted in Belize covering the sites where the projects have been implemented. Depending on the restrictive measures related to COVID-19, the evaluation is subject to virtual mode including possible travels to selected communities. All work of the Individual consultant shall be done within the guidelines and protocols set by the local and national government. Coordination/meetings shall be done through phone or online communication until such time that the restrictions are lifted. | 
