Starbucks increases funding for sustainable farms

Seattle – Starbucks Corp. putting its money where its mouth is in terms of ethical and sustainable sourcing. Starbucks is making a new commitment to contribute $30 million in the next five years as part of its Global Farmer Fund program that aids sustainable farming operations.



This investment is the continuation of an initial $20 million commitment made in 2008, and will be distributed in collaboration with lending organizations such as Root Capital and the Fairtrade Access Fund. To date, this financing has been distributed to more than 62 cooperatives in eight countries, benefiting more than 40,000 farmers.



The $50 million Global Farmer Fund aligns to Starbucks global sourcing strategy, which includes purchasing coffee from more than 30 countries worldwide and offered to customers in single origin, blend and small-lot programs and beverages. In 2015, Starbucks verified 99% of its coffee as ethically sourced. In addition, Starbucks ethical sourcing program includes a network of six farmer support centers around the world (Rwanda, Tanzania, Colombia, China, Costa Rica and Ethiopia) as well as the purchase of a farm in Costa Rica acting as a global agronomy center.



“In 2015, we have achieved a number of milestones across our ethical sourcing initiatives but we know that the work isn’t done. This new investment demonstrates how we remain steadfast in our support of farmers around the world,” said Craig Russell, executive VP of global coffee for Starbucks. “By providing access to capital, farmers have the ability to make strategic investments in their infrastructure, offering the stability they need to manage ongoing complexities so that there is a future for them and the industry.”