This tool offers a practical framework to bridge the communication gap between proponents of landscape action plans (LAPs) and financing providers, facilitating sustainable, landscape-level investments. It presents a structured approach for designing effective investments that meet financial expectations while aligning with environmental and social objectives. Centered around 12 guiding questions, the tool leads LAP proponents through essential steps, such as defining the landscape, mapping stakeholders, identifying costs and benefits, and determining financing needs. It emphasizes the development of a LAP that not only addresses local priorities but also effectively informs financing providers, supporting “investment readiness” — a state in which a payor (e.g., business, smallholder farmer) is fully prepared to attract and secure funding. Given the variety of financing providers and mechanisms, the tool acknowledges that there is no single criterion for “investment readiness”. Instead, it suggests ways for LAP proponents to support payors throughout this process. By aligning stakeholder interests and engaging financing providers early on, this approach fosters informed decision-making and builds trust among parties. Emphasizing clear, transparent communication and comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, the tool aims to ensure that actions are funded by the most appropriate sources. Ultimately, this tool provides a practical, adaptable framework for developing landscape investments that are financially viable and environmentally sustainable.
