Wim Hiemstra is trained in organic farming, and is involved in programmes supported through ETC Foundation such as the international COMPAS Network for Comparing and Supporting Endogenous Development. This programme focuses on development from within', building on indigenous knowledges, values, resources and institutions. The African and Asian Initiatives on Biocultural Community Protocols but also a new initiative in Fryslân, the Netherlands called "King of the Meadows". The latter project emphasizes the links between biological and cultural diversity through protection of birds in farmers' lands in and between Africa and Europe.

Wim has expertise in para legal training, community exchange, capacity building, programme management, policy support and endogenous development. He has worked internationally for many years and collaborated with various organisations, which has led to many different publications (books, articles and opinion pieces) from his hand on a variety of topics.