Who We Are

Bamboo Institute was established in 2008 by UNIDO in collaboration with the national government to create a bamboo industry in Timor-Leste. Over the last decade, Bamboo Institute has created a community value supply chain through investment and training for nurseries, bamboo plantations, and processing groups. With 28 nurseries, 300+ farmers, and 12 processing groups, our supply is stronger than ever and can meet high demands for modern and cultural bamboo products. What makes us a truly unique social enterprise are the progressive practices of sustainability, environmentalism, and humanitarianism as a fundamental business model in this developing country. 

Our Mission

Here at BI we believe in producing high quality furniture, handicrafts, blinds, briquettes, and other products. With a high capacity we can meet bulk orders, and with skilled staff we can customize to your needs. With every product sold we meet our true goals.

Goal 1: Create an eco-friendly and sustainable bamboo industry in Timor-Leste.

Goal 2: Invest in and train bamboo farmers, groups, and carpenters to continually raise the level of opportunity for local Timorese.

Goal 3: Alleviate poverty and generate income, especially in the most rural areas of Timor-Leste, while maintaining an efficient community value supply chain.

From Farm to Table

300+ Trained Farmers
​and 28 Nurseries

Farmers receive clump management training, saplings, and training for building nurseries.

12 Bamboo Processing Groups

Processing groups turn bamboo poles into strips, prepping them for being made into bamboo board.

1 Fabrication Center

Highly trained carpenters create bamboo board, and the bamboo products our customers love.