About us
Local Futures is an international non-profit organization dedicated to renewing ecological and social well-being by strengthening communities and local economies. Together we're building a worldwide localization movement.
Who we are
Local Futures is a registered charity. Our legal name is the International Society for Ecology and Culture. We are a 501(c)3 organization incorporated in California and adhere to Bylaws adopted in 1991, including oversight by a Board of Directors. Our funding comes largely from individual donors and foundations, as well as from the sale of publications, and lecture and writing fees.
Helena Norberg-Hodge
Founder and director Helena Norberg-Hodge is a widely-respected analyst of the global economy's impacts on communities, local economies, and personal identity around the world. Read Helena's full bio:
Our vision
We envision a localized future where most of our food comes from nearby farmers who are a part of our community and who ensure food security year round. Where money we spend on everyday goods continues to recirculate in the local economy, building community prosperity along the way. Where multinational businesses and banks adhere to the rules of society – not the other way around. Where local businesses are thriving and multiplying, thereby providing ample, meaningful livelihoods for everyone.
Our history
Local Futures was founded in 1978 to counteract the forces eroding Ladakh’s indigenous culture. As our work has grown internationally over the last forty years, we remain committed to working alongside local leaders to forge a brighter future for Ladakh.
What we do
We illuminate and explore the systemic root causes of our current global crises with our books, films, campaigns, ‘education for action’ tools, and worldwide events.
We focus on root causes, not symptoms, to create common ground among activists, farmers, indigenous communities, main street business owners—and everyone else.
We promote localization — shifting our economies towards place-based, human-scale activity — as a strategy for change that simultaneously addresses our many crises.
