The Fund for Science and Technology (FFST) has awarded a grant to the SERVIR Global Collaborative (SERVIR) to accelerate the use of Earth observation, geospatial science, and emerging artificial intelligence technologies that support data-driven decision-making and action for strengthened climate resilience and sustainable development worldwide.

For two decades, SERVIR has worked with governments and institutions to translate satellite data into actionable tools that support disaster preparedness, food and water security, ecosystem management, and climate adaptation. By co-developing solutions with national agencies and local stakeholders, SERVIR ensures that science and technology are embedded directly into decision-making systems through this globally connected, locally led collaborative.

“SERVIR has endured and evolved because of the grit of our partners, the trust we have earned across regions, and a clear, shared vision for locally led innovation,” said Anastasia Wahome, Regional Director of the SERVIR Eastern and Southern Africa hub. “The Fund for Science and Technology’s support inspires innovation across our global network, ensuring that satellite data and geospatial science continue to inform real decisions that protect lives, livelihoods, human dignity, and ecosystems.”

FFST’s financial support strengthens the SERVIR network of regional hubs across Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America, enabling continued delivery of decision-ready geospatial platforms. The funding will bolster collaboration among hubs, enhance shared technical infrastructure, and advance new capabilities in Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) to improve early flood warning, wildfire risk mapping, agricultural monitoring, deforestation and forest degradation analysis, and multi-hazard risk assessment.

“The Fund for Science and Technology’s support of SERVIR reflects our shared commitment to scientific innovation that creates positive impact for people and planet,” said Dr. Lynda Stuart, President and CEO, FFST. “Through trusted geospatial systems and responsible use of advanced technologies, SERVIR can enable communities and local leaders to make informed decisions in vulnerable regions facing increasing climate risk.”

The impact of this work is measured not only in data points, but in lives protected and livelihoods sustained. SERVIR connects “space to village” by translating geospatial technologies and satellite observations into actionable information that strengthens resilience in the face of climate shocks.

• In Nepal, teachers and local officials use SERVIR’s 48-hour flood forecasts to warn communities before rivers overtop their banks, giving families precious time to move to safety.
• In northern Senegal, pastoralists navigating increasingly unpredictable dry seasons rely on satellite-derived water maps to guide their herds toward viable watering holes and grazing areas, safeguarding both food security, economic stability, and cultural traditions.
• In Ghana and Peru, remote forest monitoring facilitates on-the-ground responses to illegal logging and mining in protected areas.
• In Ecuador the national hydrometeorological service has integrated river monitoring information into operational flood forecasting and alerts. 

SERVIR integrates principles of transparency, open science, and responsible innovation into its work, embedding rigorous validation, ethical safeguards, and human oversight into the development of advanced GeoAI systems.

In appreciation of the SERVIR network, David Saah, Spatial Informatics Group’s managing principal, stated that “SERVIR has always been about building bridges between global science and local decision-making. This partnership helps ensure that innovation moves from research into trusted systems used by governments and communities to deliver real-world impact at scale.”

FFST’s grant comes at a pivotal moment for global environmental cooperation and innovation as we work to build a more resilient future.