Starting an environmental nonprofit often begins with a vision and the determination to make a difference, but it also comes with challenges in funding, community support, and long-term sustainability. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Bart Oor and Sander Brienen share the story of how they created Balean, a platform designed to help independent projects and nonprofits access the support they need to thrive.

Independent changemakers are reshaping how conservation work is done. Bart and Sander explain the obstacles they faced, how collaboration shaped their journey, and why Balean is launching in October as a dedicated space to fund and grow independent ocean initiatives. If you’re passionate about starting your own project or nonprofit, this conversation provides both inspiration and practical advice.

Website: https://www.balean.org/