Building Bridges to Support Impactful Collaboration Between
the United States and Cuba
About Us
FOCUS (Forum for Cuba–U.S.) Partnerships is an initiative launched by Ford Foundation grantees to strengthen collaboration between communities in Cuba and the United States. Our founding organizations include the Caribbean Agroecology Institute, Environmental Defense Fund, Friends of Havana, Foundation for a Civil Society, and Medical Education Cooperation with Cuba.
We believe meaningful U.S.–Cuba collaboration benefits both countries. From health and environmental protection to sustainable food systems, arts and culture, and urban renewal, there are countless opportunities to learn from one another and address shared challenges. By fostering partnerships rooted in trust, respect, and mutual understanding, we support innovative solutions that advance both societies and pave the way for lasting reconciliation.
How We Work
Nurturing Community for More Effective Engagement
Convene
FOCUS Partnerships is built on the belief that fostering a network of diverse, informed, and interconnected organizations is essential to amplifying our collective impact and advancing positive U.S.-Cuba relations. We aim to create opportunities for organizations to come together to share knowledge and expertise in order to better navigate complex political landscapes, enhance advocacy efforts, and create enduring networks of collaboration.
Collaborate
Member organizations bring extensive experience in collaborating with Cuban counterparts on a wide range of globally significant issues, including the environment, agroecology, public health, urban renewal, cultural preservation, and the arts. We are dedicated to supporting innovative local development projects, forging new partnerships, and engaging diverse actors and strategies to tackle critical, longstanding challenges. Through these efforts, we aim to foster mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to more resilient and sustainable communities in both countries.
Connect
FOCUS Partnerships facilitates meaningful support for projects in Cuba by connecting foundations and individual donors with organizations advancing locally-driven initiatives. As a grant intermediary, we provide comprehensive services, including vetting potential grantees, ensuring compliance with the current legal framework, administering grants, and monitoring and evaluating the impact of funding.
Issue Briefs
Explore how cooperative, on-the-ground approaches can advance shared U.S.–Cuba priorities in health, energy, and the environment.
FOCUS ON HEALTH
ENHANCING U.S.-CUBA ENGAGEMENT FOR PEOPLE’S HEALTH
Hurricane Melissa underscores the urgent need for regional cooperation on the health impacts of climate-related disasters. This brief examines how Cuba’s community-based health system—and the challenges it now faces—can inform opportunities for U.S.–Cuba engagement to strengthen preparedness, innovation, and regional health security. Download the full brief here.
FOCUS On ENERGY RESILIENCE
COLLABORATIVE APPROACHES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Cuba’s deepening energy crisis continues to affect communities nationwide. In May 2025, FOCUS Partnerships brought together Cuban and international stakeholders to explore solutions for a resilient, sustainable energy future, emphasizing decentralized innovations like microgrids and biodigesters. This brief highlights local initiatives, key insights, and opportunities for regional collaboration to advance reliable, renewable, and community-led energy systems. Download the full brief here.