Forest Catalyst Network Targets Innovation and Small-Diameter Wood Markets

A Forest Catalyst Network, targeted to expand forest product markets and forestry innovations were announced by the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities with support from the Richard King Mellon Foundation, which is one of the 50 largest foundations.

This catalyst is intended to engage philanthropic organizations, investors, and corporate partners to support investments in the forest sector “from early-stage development to commercial adoption”, according to the announcement of the catalyst effort.

The effort has a specific focus on strengthening markets for “residual fiber and small-diameter wood”. The catalyst effort was announced after a gathering of forestry organizations in Madison in May. The goals include identifying and deploying capital in support of rural economic development and conservation goals.

The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a public nonprofit organization formed 20 years ago to work on behalf of working forests and forest-reliant communities.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation is one of the 50 largest U.S. foundations. It is strongly focused on conservation and economic development efforts. In 2025, it authorized total funding of $152 million, including $63 million for conservation projects and $41 million toward economic development.