Snow Leopard Enterprises (SLE) offers an avenue to the livestock owners to increase their household income by producing and selling local handicrafts, and in return, the communities commit to protect the snow leopard and its natural prey. SLE participants live in remote settings far from markets. By providing an outlet for traditional handicrafts, SLE is helping herding families, particularly women, increase their household income.  In most valleys where the SLE works, there is a strong tradition of handicrafts, especially embroidery.  SLE offers additional training, basic tools, and design ideas that make products easy to market. Products are developed both for national, local and international markets. Because the program is based on sound business principles, it is sustainable and has a long- lasting social and environmental impact. In order to participate in the program, the communities sign a contract and ban poaching of snow leopards and their prey species including ibex, markhor, blue sheep and argali.  Participants also agree to engage in responsible herding practices such as ensuring that their livestock is not left unguarded and avoiding grazing livestock in sensitive lambing sites.