Barry Callebaut’s new foundation

Switzerland – Barry Callebaut has a new initiative on the horizon, and it all begins with cocoa.

The Cocoa Horizons Foundation (CHF), an independent non-profit organization launched by the global chocolate supplier, has been mandated with improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and their communities through the promotion of sustainable, entrepreneurial farming, improved productivity and community development.

The CHF has two focal points: training farmers in good agricultural practices and supporting them with materials and innovative financing solutions; and working with rural communities to improve education opportunities, support child protection, empower women, and provide safe water and basic health services.

Traceability and transparency are part of the foundation’s DNA, stated a company press release. Comprehensive data from registered farms are collected into a data management tool and cocoa is traced from the farm to the warehouse. The Foundation communicates transparently to its contributors on its activities, achievements and impact. A global audit firm audits the foundation annually and verifies its core activities.

For the implementation of its activities, the CHF relies on Barry Callebaut’s team of field staff working on the ground with cocoa farmers and farming communities as well as external partners and development experts best suited to the objectives of the activities conducted.

The Cocoa Horizons Foundation serves as a new platform for chocolate companies and other contributors to invest in sustainable cocoa. It is funded through the purchase of Barry Callebaut’s sustainable HORIZONS cocoa and chocolate products (which are succeeding QPP products), contributions from donors and customers who are inspired to support the mission of the Foundation, and Barry Callebaut’s contributions as part of its CHF 40 million Cocoa Horizons sustainability initiative launched in 2012. The initial annual operational budget is about CHF 10 million, which is intended to increase over time, reported the news release.