The Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF) is an applied research centre jointly managed by World Agroforestry (ICRAF) and the Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Our work’s geographic scope includes the Asian Highlands throughout Southwestern China, the Mekong Region and Central Asia. We leverage large-scale field research to develop innovative solutions to improve livelihoods and address climate change in the world’s mountainous regions. Working with governments, research institutions, farmers and other relevant stakeholders, we combine agroforestry systems, traditional knowledge and smart ecosystem-based management to enhance sustainable livelihoods in ecologically healthy and productive landscapes. Our Mountain Futures Initiative (MFI) seeks to facilitate intercultural knowledge exchange and dialogue; improve food security by applying socially and environmentally appropriate, cost-effective management practices; and enable “smart” farming through the synthesis of new technologies and traditional practices. Our research and training site in Honghe County, Yunnan Province, will facilitate the development of a shared global vision for mountain communities.