Promoting processes of outreach and social appropriation regarding the actions we undertake at the University of the Andes concerning conservation, sustainable use, and equitable distribution of benefits derived from biodiversity, through the creation and implementation of innovative outreach and social appropriation strategies led by research and creation seedbeds, both within the Uniandes community and with other actors in society at large.

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) represents a crucial milestone in international efforts to conserve and sustainably use the planet's biological wealth. This global agreement, backed by the Conference of the Parties (COP) and the CBD Secretariat, establishes fundamental principles guiding the preservation of biological diversity and the equitable distribution of its benefits. In line with these principles, the CBD's objectives for 2050 encompass the conservation of ecosystems and species, sustainable use of natural resources, fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the use of genetic resources, and the pursuit of financing and means for their implementation. This international framework highlights the importance of collaboration and balance between human development and respect for nature, key elements in the fight for biodiversity preservation worldwide.

In this global context, and considering that Colombia will host COP16 on biodiversity in 2024, where UN member states will discuss and seek solutions to critical issues to reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, the Vice-Rectorate of Research and Creation at the University of the Andes proposes the challenge of empowering research and creation seedbeds to lead innovative strategies for outreach and social appropriation of biodiversity-related research conducted at Uniandes, generating a positive impact both within the university community and among external social groups.

• Proposals should focus on the challenge's objective, impacting both the university community and other actors in society.
• Participation is limited to proposals submitted by active research seedbed groups at the University of the Andes.
• At least one tenured or adjunct researcher from the University of Los Andes must be involved in each proposal.
• Each proposal must include a signed letter of introduction and commitment from the delegate(s) of the research seedbed(s) and the tenured or adjunct researcher.
• Endorsement from the Research Ethics Committee is required.
• Participants must commit to attending networking and socialization events organized by the Vice-Rectorate of Research and Creation.
• Proposals should be innovative, offering novel and creative approaches to address the challenges posed in the challenge.