Trace Foundation promotes the cultural continuity and sustainable development of Tibetan communities within China.

In cooperation with government and other partners, we implement projects that improve the ability of local communities to meet their own needs. Working with government institutions, community organizations and individuals, we seek to integrate culture and development goals and bring about long-term social and environmental benefits. Projects supported by the foundation reflect our guiding principles, and currently fall within three program areas: education, rural development and culture.

Trace Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization based in New York City. It has no political or religious affiliations. Trace Foundation is funded entirely through personal donations and receives no money from government sources.

Trace Foundation is guided by the following principles:

• Be accountable to local people.
• Respect and support local culture.
• Encourage local participation in developing, implementing, managing, and assessing projects.
• Work to increase the capacity of individuals, institutions, and communities to meet their own needs and to benefit others.
• Ensure meaningful local contributions in all projects.
• Undertake initiatives that produce long-lasting benefits.
• Foster community-mindedness.
• Evaluate applications on the basis of merit, ability, initiative, and integrity.
• Conserve ecological balance.
• Involve women and men equally.
• Seek out and apply best methods and technologies.
• Carry out projects that complement and enhance one another.
• Be guided by the values of compassion, honesty, cooperation, and belief in human potential.