Working through Clusters

Our approach to partnership is built around a cluster model. Rather than working with individual organisations in isolation, we engage with clusters—groups of partners connected by geographic proximity or shared conservation challenges.

Each organisation plays an active role in identifying relevant partners within their region or issue area, such as neighbouring protected areas or aligned institutions. Where needed, we can help facilitate the formation of these clusters.

By working collectively, clusters strengthen knowledge exchange, coordination, and long-term impact—ensuring that solutions are not only localised, but also scalable and sustainable.

How LEAD works

At LEAD, we are committed to transforming conservation efforts through tailored, effective support. Our approach focuses on delivering personalised, practical, and evidence-based strategies that meet the unique needs of each organisation we support.

1

Engagement & Alignment

Organisations express interest in adopting the ITR approach, assess cluster potential, and align on expectations, roles, and the framework for a phased, collaborative rollout.

2

Assessment & Planning

Through on-site assessment, we analyse threat dynamics, capacity, and needs, creating a tailored plan prioritising achievable, relevant interventions.

3

Capability Building

Delivered in three progressive stages over three years, this phase focuses on strengthening operational capability across reactive, proactive, and preventive tiers of ITR.

Special projects

Some challenges call for a tailored approach. Our special projects are assessed on a case-by-case basis and undertaken when there’s a compelling reason for our involvement—whether due to unique circumstances, strategic importance, or the potential for high impact.

One such example is our support to the Akashinga Academy in Zimbabwe, where we contributed to strengthening one of Africa’s most innovative conservation initiatives. These projects allow us to apply our expertise in flexible, targeted ways where it’s needed most.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes. If your organisation is interested in adopting the ITR approach but no active cluster exists in your region, we can work with you to explore potential partners and help initiate a cluster where there is shared interest and operational relevance.

We don’t offer individual enrolment at this time. All training is delivered through organisational partnerships. If you’re interested in attending a module, speak to your team leader or training officer—they can explore options for engagement with LEAD.

These modules are available to partner organisations as part of the broader ITR capability-building process. If your team already works with LEAD, your management can request inclusion. Otherwise, they’re welcome to contact us to explore potential partnership.

While the structure of the ITR rollout is consistent—moving through reactive, proactive, and preventive tiers—we tailor the timeline and content to fit your operational tempo, team capacity, and risk environment. The goal is progress, not pace.

Our aim is to leave behind a self-sustaining capability. By embedding training, planning tools, and leadership development within your team, we reduce long-term dependency. Continued peer support may come through the cluster network, but LEAD’s direct involvement concludes unless a new project is agreed.

Contact

Plataanlaan 19
6708 PT Wageningen
The Netherlands
Email: info@leadconservation.org

Let’s talk

You can also directly email us at info@leadconservation.org—we’d love to talk about how we can support your conservation goals.