Caretaker Scholarship Funds
Each Caretaker entering BLI is expected to contribute a small financial portion of the overall cost. We feel that this fosters a sense of independence and dignity in their commitment to the program. For those to whom this is a hardship, they may enter into a work-study program, contributing extra hours toward the commitment. No student will be denied admission to BLI due to a personal lack of funds.
When they market their goods, any proceeds they make can go toward their tuition. However, this is just a small portion of the costs to operate the institute.
Therefore, many of our supporters donate to our Scholarship Fund to make up the difference. Donors can sponsor a student per term or annually. Sponsors get trees planted in their name and receive communication and updates from their students. We also have a general assistance fund which helps unsponsored caretakers with tuition.
We invite you to support a student through the following funds:
Sponsorship Fund
A Caretaker Sponsorship covers tuition at BLI. It creates a one-to-one relationship between the donor and Caretaker. A sponsorship offers a unique opportunity for the student to directly communicate with the donor on a quarterly basis, updating them on their progress and happenings on the campus.
Sponsorship Levels:
- $2500 to support a Caretaker for one year of residency at BLI
- $5000 to support a Caretaker for their full 2-year residency at BLI
Caretaker Assistance Fund
Assist an individual Caretaker’s personal contribution for entrance to BLI, based on hardship.
Assistance Fund Levels:
- $500 partial scholarship to support a Caretaker’s portion of their tuition for one year
- $1000 partial scholarship to support a Caretaker’s portion of their tuition for two years
You may donate right here, online, or you can contact us to discuss ways in which you can help fund a caretaker's education.

St. Francis House
St. Francis House will be the guesthouse on campus, nestled in the forest. We envision visitors to BLI who will come to learn about the BLI programs - those who want to replicate our programs, researchers, university students, and our supporters.
Additionally, St. Francis House will be a part of the Martha's Market curriculum, whereby our caretakers will take a rotation learning hospitality management and finance skills. Fees will be charged to our guests, providing a source of income to BLI.
Our goal is to complete St. Francis House in 2021. We have a matching gift campaign in progress, and any gift is appreciated. Please contact us with any questions or to discuss our campaign. You may also make a donation online.
