Burch Philanthropy - NIHI Sumba

Burch Family Foundation
A Family Vision. A Lasting Impact.

When Chris Burch acquired NIHI for his sons, Nick, Henry, and Sawyer, he imagined more than a resort. He envisioned a place where values could be lived, not just taught. A sanctuary where adventure meets purpose, and where family, responsibility, and meaningful contribution are as integral as the surrounding natural beauty. That vision has since evolved into something far greater than a destination. NIHI is now a haven of wild luxury and deep connection, a place where impact is woven into every experience. The Burch family remains deeply involved, with Nick, Henry, and Sawyer each bringing their heart to a venture shaped by intention and guided by care.

In 2025, Chris Burch established the Burch Family Foundation to expand and deepen that vision. As the philanthropic heart of NIHI, the Burch Family Foundation offers long-term support and coordination to a growing constellation of community-driven initiatives across Sumba. It exists to ensure that generosity is not just a gesture, but a sustainable force for good. The Foundation continues a path first forged by Claude Graves, who founded The Sumba Foundation^® in 2001. His early work laid the foundation for progress that still resonates across the island today.

Burch Family Foundation proudly supports:

The Sumba Foundation^®
Strengthening health systems, expanding education, and supporting livelihoods across Sumba.

English Goes to Kampung
Empowering local youth with access to English-language education and global opportunity.

Sumba Hospitality Foundation
Equipping the next generation with skills in sustainable tourism and leadership.

Marine Conservation Initiatives
Protecting the island’s unique marine ecosystems through local knowledge and active stewardship.

Sustained by the Burch family’s devotion, and continually uplifted by the generosity of NIHI’s global guest community, the Burch Family Foundation is more than philanthropy. It is a living expression of care, connection, and the enduring value of giving back.

The Sumba Foundation

Is constantly evolving to meet the current and future needs of the Sumbanese people, building a solid foundation of better health and basic education for the community, creating employment and small-scale business opportunities for future generations.

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Sumba Hospitality Foundation

Sumba was poised for a surge in tourism development, with potential to create indispensable job opportunities. Many sumbanese youth did not have access to the relevant education. And that’s how Inge founded the Hospitality School and Foundation.

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English Goes to Kampung

Is a grassroots organization founded by english teacher and activist, Roswita Asti Kulla. Recognizing education as a vital tool to alleviate poverty and gain access to job opportunities, EGK’s mission is to make education more widely accessible on sumba island.

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