The mission of the Packard Foundation is to provide the nation's most promising early-career scientists and engineers with the freedom and funding to explore new frontiers in their fields. This effort reflects David Packard's recognition of the importance of robust university-based science and engineering programs, rooted in his understanding of the crucial role these disciplines played in the success of the Hewlett-Packard Company.
The Agriculture, Livelihoods, and Conservation Initiative seeks to enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and forest-dependent communities while preserving natural resources. Highlighting a holistic approach that combines agricultural economic opportunities with environmental sustainability, the initiative focuses on tropical forests in Ethiopia and Indonesia. It prioritizes solutions that recognize the vital roles of women, Indigenous communities, and youth in these processes. The strategy involves: