This programme brings different GBIF Participant Nodes together to share their experiences – and expertise. It enables the quick transfer of information technologies, experiences, best practices and know-how between Nodes based on how they fit in terms of capacity and development status.

The mentoring approach helps to leverage and enhance capacity across the GBIF network by promoting partnerships and Node-to-Node interactions. It also helps Nodes to benefit from the lessons learnt and experience gained by others.

Initiated in 2003, the Mentoring Programme was designed as a vehicle to speed up the establishment of Biodiversity Information Facilities at the GBIF Participant level (Participant BIFs) and is funded by small grants allocated from the GBIF core funding.

A typical Mentoring Proposal is a collaboration between two or more Nodes, in which a recipient Node or ’mentee’ requests technical assistance and guidance from one or several more experienced Nodes, which act as mentors in areas that are strategically important for the mentee’s development.