Current recipients of the fund came together to share experiences, achievements and lessons learned, since the investment began in 2013. The meeting was attended by future potential grant recipients as well as other donors and government, with the meeting being opened by the Deputy Director of the Environment and Conservation Division of the Ministry for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Mr Tia Masolo.

CEPF's Regional Implementation Team members set the scene by outlining the current status of grants awarded in Solomon Islands and current grantees presented on the major achievements resulting from their CEPF-funded work. Networking and partnership building were an important part of the meeting, and participants shared ideas for future proposals in line with CEPF’s priorities as well as Solomon Island’s national priorities for biodiversity conservation. Participants helped to identify current gaps in the portfolio and shape a way forward for future grant-making in Solomon Islands. This is a vital step for ensuring that future funds are targeted to the areas, organizations and activities that need interventions the most. The next call for proposals will be open from 22nd August 2016 until 30th September 2016, and further information on how to apply can be obtained from cepfeastmelanesia@iucn.org.