Ocean ecosystems are under-represented in the Colombian Protected Area System. SINAP, a group of public-private entities and local-communities, proposed to complement SINAP, stating: “It’s not only about the conservation but also about increasing public awareness of our oceans and to improve the institutional capabilities and well-being for local communities through mobilization and management of financial and non-financial resources for Marine Protected Areas.” The solution led to the declaration of 11 new MPAs and the reduction of financial gaps for effective management; at 2015 investments to cover operational costs increased by 10%, and the annual government budget to 100%, the impacts were directly on implementation actions. Today, 13% of Colombia’s oceans are under protection accomplishing and exceeding Aichi Target 11 and SDG14. Enhanced capacities evaluated exceeded 70% expected results, and the methods developed have the potential to be replicated.