In the face of prolonged worldwide economic instability, WWF has delivered on ambitious programmatic goals in FY10. Once again, investment in conservation program accomplishments is the largest of any fiscal year in our history.
While fundraising has stabilized somewhat and we see many positive indicators going forward, the economic future remains uncertain. Adapting to these economic cycles has provided a renewed sense of urgency to achieve our programmatic results in balance with constrained resources.
Operating revenue totaled $224.2 million, a 1.3% increase over FY09. This represents increases from all income sources, with the exception of foundations, and reflects decreased use of payouts from reserves. Hidden within this modest revenue growth is the story of ever-increasing support from our many valued contributors and our growing membership base. We received $85.5 million from our members and donors, with membership contributions accounting for $46.4 million — the highest ever.
Government awards for our work in the Coral Triangle, Coastal East Africa, the Amazon and other areas totaled $40.4 million, also a new high. Support from corporations of $10.5 million was strong, while foundation revenue of $17.3 million continued to reflect a general contraction in multiyear foundation commitments. We received $13.0 million from WWF Network organizations and $57.4 million in other revenues, including in-kind contributions of media and equipment.
As we seek out new ways to move conservation forward, we also work to maximize operational efficiencies while maintaining healthy governance and controls. The austerity measures we put in place last fiscal year, along with continued advances in overall operational efficiency, have resulted in an improved spending ratio: 83% of total expenses in FY10 were directed to worldwide conservation.
Alongside our many other efforts to protect species, ecosystems and people, WWF’s Year of the Tiger initiative has gained substantial international, social and government support toward our goal of doubling the number of wild tigers by 2022 — the next Year of the Tiger. Your continued commitment to, and support of, our work provides us with the flexibility necessary to achieve our goals and respond to new challenges.
