Who We Are
The Sikkim Development Foundation (SF) is an NGO working to improve living standards and promote inclusive growth across Sikkim. In the past, SF’s work focused on vulnerable groups especially, women and children, through initiatives in education, livelihoods, conservation, WASH, and community empowerment.
However, after a period of dormancy, SF is re-emerging with new and veteran members to rebuild and re-envision the organisation.Together, we are blending two decades of grassroots learning with innovative approaches to meet the evolving needs of Sikkim’s communities.
Our Values
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Community First
Equity & Inclusion
Sustainability
Collaboration
Since our founding in 1999, the Sikkim Development Foundation (SF) has worked at the intersection of education, livelihoods, conservation, and community empowerment. Over the years, we have built strong partnerships locally and internationally, piloted innovative projects, and strengthened grassroots leadership across Sikkim
1999
Formed in 1999, SF was registered as a non-profit with the aim to address Sikkim’s environmental, educational, social, and economic challenges, in partnership with local communities and the state government.
2003 - 2005
SF’s early work focused on community-based models, including the Kewzing Village Home Stays and the Borong Polok Handmade Paper Unit, both designed for replication across Sikkim.
2006 - 2010
SF’s programs aimed to empower women, youth, and marginalized groups through livelihood training, poverty alleviation, and environmental education, fostering local self-reliance and sustainability.
2010 - 2011
SF collaborated with government agencies to improve policy formulation and development planning, focusing on water, sanitation, and forest fire prevention projects
2012 - 2020
SF led multi-year initiatives such as agricultural rejuvenation, marketing support for local crafts, conservation efforts, and solid waste management to improve Sikkim’s rural and environmental conditions.
2021 Onwards
From 2021–2023, SF undertook institutional restructuring, focusing on youth leadership and governance, while reviving community-driven projects like the Handmade Paper Unit and Indigenous Knowledge Documentation.
Institutional Restructuring (2021–2023)
Over the past three years, Sikkim Development Foundation (SF) has undergone deliberate institutional restructuring to strengthen its long-term effectiveness and community engagement. This phase focused on:
Onboarding new leadership, including young professionals with relevant sectoral expertise
Internal audit and investigations
We are committed to accountability and transparency to ensure we can assure our donors and partners that funds entrusted to us are used appropriately.
Audit Report
2021-2022
Audit Report
2022-2023
Audit Report
2023-2024