Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

Working Towards Thriving Communities in Tibet

The Tibetan Plateau features some of the most beautiful, yet unforgiving terrain on Earth. Home to over six million Tibetans, the region’s geographic isolation, poor infrastructure, and lack of economic resources make it one of the most disadvantaged and underdeveloped regions in China.

The Bridge Fund (TBF), which was established in 1996 by a group of distinguished Tibetans, Americans, Asians and Europeans, addresses locally identified needs within the education, community development, environmental conservation, business development, healthcare, and cultural heritage preservation sectors. TBF supports integrated development in all areas of the Tibetan Plateau with a focus on nomadic and semi-nomadic communities who are most vulnerable to social and economic transitions. TBF is run almost entirely by a highly capable Tibetan staff based in the region.

Since its establishment, The Bridge Fund has raised over $15 million in funds from individuals, private foundations, and government agencies, including USAID, The Government of France, The Government of Norway, and The Royal Government of the Netherlands. To date, The Bridge Fund has supported over three hundred projects and programs across the Tibetan Plateau.

Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors provides support for TBF through professional management of all donor funds, grants disbursement and counsel on a diverse range of philanthropic issues.