< Previous56 2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT EMPRENDER+ Advancing Entrepreneurship in Colombia Emprender+ is proving that small businesses can be powerful drivers of change in rural Colombia. The initiative creates opportunities outside the oil and gas sector and bolsters local economies by equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and financial assistance needed to turn their ideas into viable businesses, or to improve existing ones. The program, created and funded by GTE and implemented in partnership with NGO, Corporación mundial de la mujer (World Women’s Corporation Colombia), is built on the belief that entrepreneurs are best positioned to identify business opportunities and determine their professional paths. It supports individuals with a business or a viable idea, helping them navigate the critical early stages where limited resources can threaten a business’ survival. This initiative changes lives. It’s the only one like it in our region and we’ve heard many stories of people expanding their businesses thanks to Emprender+. Luis Albeiro De Angel Torres Rice Farmer in San Jose de las Americas This program has been a game changer for us. Emprender+ completely transformed how we operate, improving our productivity and profitability, and now we’re excited for what’s ahead. Maria Luisa Rivera Manzano Aves y Peces Villa del Sol, a restaurant and fish farming business in San Martín Emprender+ gave me more than just equipment—it gave me knowledge that changed my mindset to achieve financial stability, and that means everything to me. Olga Aliria Calderón Sugarcane Producer in Villagarzón As entrepreneurs sometimes we have the desire but not the tools to start our businesses. But the knowledge that Emprender+ provides makes all the difference. Candida Serrato Punto de la Costura, a dressmaking business in Villagarzón STEWARDING THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPECTING HUMAN RIGHTS INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE INTRODUCTION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTINVESTINGIN COmmUNITIES57 174 PARTICIPANTS FROM THE MIDDLE MAGDALENA VALLEY BASIN 184 PARTICIPANTS FROM THE PUTUMAYO BASIN 358 ENTREPRENEURS PARTICIPATED TOOK PART IN THE INITIATIVE TOOK PART IN THE INITIATIVE DOÑA ALBA TERESA, DELICIAS SANTA TERESITA, AN ICE CREAM BUSINESS IN VILLAGARZÓN 270 Women 88 Men58 2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 58% INDIGENOUS OR AFRO-DESCENDANT PARTICIPANTS 251 FEMALE PARTICIPANTS (90% ) 279 TOTAL PARTICIPANTS HILOS DE LA TIERRA: INDIGENOUS CULTURAL PRESERVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Hilos de la Tierra is an initiative dedicated to preserving Indigenous culture and traditions while supporting entrepreneurship and financial empowerment for artisans and women in vulnerable situations. Launched in Putumayo, the program’s success has led to its expansion into the middle magdalena Valley, providing more pathways to self-sufficiency for those who need it most. Under the guidance of a creative team led by renowned designer Juan Pablo Socarrás, Hilos de la Tierra is designed to support Indigenous and Afro-descendant groups in Putumayo, as well as women in vulnerable situations in the middle magdalena Valley. Hilos de la Tierra has been featured in major fairs such as Expoartesanías in Bogotá, Trunk Show, Feria Eva, and Vancouver Fashion week, which generate direct sales and increase visibility to new potential clients. Combining cultural preservation with economic opportunity, Hilos de la Tierra empowers individuals to build a future rooted in tradition, innovation, and self-sufficiency. STEWARDING THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPECTING HUMAN RIGHTS INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE INTRODUCTION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTINVESTINGIN COmmUNITIES59 There are no words to describe how much Hilos de la Tierra has helped me and benefited my community and family. I now think of my work as a kind of healing—almost like therapy. The project provides emotional support, and the most beautiful thing is the friendships we’ve built. Ana Isabel Buesaquillo Artisan, Villagarzón We may not have formal degrees, but thanks to this training, we feel like professionals. The knowledge we’ve gained is invaluable; now, we have the tools to shape our future. Bertina Cordero Tarazona Artisan, San Martín I never imagined that I would one day present a piece in a fashion show—and even more importantly, get paid for it! This program has been an awakening for us, and we’re ready to continue building on everything we’ve learned. Ana María Niño Tarazona Artisan, San Martín Hilos de la Tierra has changed my life. It has given me the opportunity to teach artisans and helped us support each other. My vision is to teach more people—including our children and anyone who wants to learn. Olga Yaneth Ortega Artisan, Villagarzón Artisan, Villagarzón It has been amazing to witness the progress of these women. They now clearly understand how much their pieces cost, who their clients are, and how to position their products in the market. Laura Bautista Design Coach, La Corporación Mundial de la Mujer Colombia60 2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS 1,527 PQR’S RESOLVED IN COLOMBIA AND ECUADOR >3 K MEETINGS HELD WITH COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS ~6 K STUDENTS HAVE PARTICIPATED IN PETROLCOPA PROJECT STEWARDING THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPECTING HUMAN RIGHTS INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE INTRODUCTION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTEngaging Our nEighbOurs 61 “ Of all the companies that have operated in our area, Gran Tierra stands out for its passion and genuine commitment to the region. I hope they continue to have a long-term presence to support the growth of our municipality. The oil and gas industry—and GTE’s community-focused approach in particular—play a vital role in local development. We are committed to balancing our public responsibilities with private sector collaboration to ensure sustainable growth for Puerto Asís. Jorge Herlinto García López Mayor of Puerto Asís Strong community engagement is fundamental to Gran Tierra Energy’s goal of being a good neighbour. GTE values authenticity in interactions, transparency in information sharing, and accountability for upholding its commitments. While detailed tools and processes have been developed to support engagement, the true measure of success in this area lies in the trust the Company builds with its neighbours. GTE’s engagement model is tailored to fit with the unique cultures, traditions, and practices of the regions where it operates. The Company’s South American approach is built on providing accurate information about its activities, listening to community concerns and needs, developing high-impact initiatives that respond to needs, and ensuring stakeholders can easily share feedback. 100% APPROVAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL LICENCE APPLICATIONS FOCUSED ON TRANSPARENT DIALOGUE EMPOWERED COMMUNITIES TO ADVOCATE FOR THEIR INTERESTS62 2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT EMPOWERING LOCAL LEADERSHIP Strong local leadership is key to productive collaboration and regional stability. GTE works closely with municipal authorities and community leaders to support initiatives that facilitate dialogue, development, and relationships. LEADERSHIP AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING A new Strengthening Entrepreneurship and Leadership initiative builds leadership skills by providing entrepreneurs, local leaders and community associations in Ecuador with continuous learning opportunities, soft skills development, and conflict resolution strategies. The program focuses on women, young people, and community leaders in the regions of Charapa, Chanangue, and Iguana, supporting their efforts to grow self-employment initiatives and strengthen local governance in areas beyond the extractive economy. TRANSPARENCY COMMITTEES A Platform for Building Trust Transparency Committees facilitated by GTE in South America directly link communities with the Company, providing a platform for residents to learn and share feedback about activities. These committees help maintain relationships through regular meetings, education initiatives, and structured engagement, ensuring open communication and accountability. A key function of the committees is overseeing the Grievance management System (PQR system), which allows concerns to be reviewed and resolved promptly. In addition, monthly listening sessions provide a space for open dialogue, further building trust and transparency. Each committee is made up of leaders representing their regions. These leaders help residents understand GTE’s operations and act as mediators to ensure concerns are addressed and decisions reflect community input. STEWARDING THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPECTING HUMAN RIGHTS INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE INTRODUCTION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS63 Having a space to discuss issues related to the project is essential. Transparency builds trust, and through our meetings, we ensure commitments are met. Klever Mamallacta Transparency Committee Member, Unión La Balzareña Our goal is to build a partnership between the Company and the community, working together towards shared success. Marcelo Bustillos Social Professional Our relationships with First Nations and Metis in Canada are a critical part of our work. Some of GTE’s operations are located outside of Reserve boundaries but within Traditional Territories – areas that are deeply significant. We’ve built trust through consistent, timely, and respectful engagement, not just by meeting the letter of regulatory requirements, but by showing up and listening. We remain committed to these engagements and also are prioritizing local First Nations and Metis businesses who are supporting our operations in many ways. Garrett Laudel Director, Land ENGAGEMENT WITH FIRST NATIONS PEOPLES IN CANADA GTE’s engagement model in Western Canada is built on the same foundational principles as in the rest of its operations: respect, collaboration, and transparency. The Company recognizes that working with Indigenous Nations requires effective and transparent communication, cooperation, and mutual understanding. GTE’s approach is guided by: OPEN AND ONGOING DIALOGUE GTE prioritizes proactive, clear and transparent communication to ensure meaningful consultation and engagement. This includes initiating early discussions, providing regular updates, and responding promptly to questions or concerns. RESPECT FOR RIGHTS AND TRADITIONS The Company acknowledges and respects Indigenous rights, cultural heritage, and the significance of Traditional Territories. ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION AND OPPORTUNITIES GTE supports Indigenous businesses, workforce development, and capacity building by actively integrating local vendors, contractors, and service providers from various First Nation businesses into its projects.642024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT PETROLCOPA Future Leaders in Colombia more than 600 teenagers from 12 schools in Colombia’s middle magdalena Valley and Putumayo regions participated in this year’s PetrolCopa School Challenge, building on initiatives they developed the previous year. PetrolCopa continues to be a transformative program that equips young Colombians with critical thinking, technical expertise, and leadership skills. Through real-world challenges, students build their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of energy and environmental issues, and intensify their commitment to community development. In 2024, the program focused on water conservation, sustainability, and community-driven solutions. Expert-led workshops helped refine the winning projects from the previous year’s competition. Participants explored biodiversity, water conservation, and energy sustainability while designing solutions for their specific personal and community contexts. PetrolCopa also encouraged students to consider Science, Technology, Engineering, and mathematics (STEm) careers and to refine their personal and professional aspirations. Collaborating with Gran Tierra through PetrolCopa has provided invaluable support for our institution and students. Willetgardo Pena Sanchez Principal Andrés Bello, San Alberto STEWARDING THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPECTING HUMAN RIGHTS INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES ENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE INTRODUCTION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTENGAGING OUR NEIGHBOURS65 By helping students envision their futures and understand different career paths, we give them a significant advantage as they approach graduation. Rosiris Barahona Teacher, Andrés Bello EI, San Alberto PETROLCOPA PARTICIPANTS BRAYAN AND JHEIRSON TEAM UP WITH CHEMISTRY TEACHER ADRIANA ZAMBRANO TO REFINE THEIR BIODIGESTER DESIGN, WHICH CREATES NATURAL GAS FOR HOUSEHOLD USE.Next >