The TCT collaborates with public and private sectors creating partnerships between local communities, NGOs, local governments and the tourism industry to identify and support community-based development projects and conservation initiatives that sustain ecological integrity, protect biodiversity, support cultural heritage, and contribute to the social and economic well-being of local people.

Projects are funded and carried out with donations and volunteer assistance of travelers, guides, in-country outfitters and resident beneficiaries in collaboration with local NGOs. Travelers are invited to become international contributors of local conservation organizations and to support community development projects that have been vetted in advance by the Travelers Conservation Trust.