Beyond the Grant: Keeping Co-op Work Alive

What happens when a bold, grassroots organization partners with the U.S. government—and then the government walks away?

That’s the story Equal Exchange found itself in earlier this year, when a surprise policy shift ended nearly 15 years of transformative, farmer-led development work funded by USAID. But instead of giving up, Equal Exchange is digging in.

From Guatemala to Paraguay, this co-op-led initiative improved crop quality, empowered women, trained youth, and strengthened local economies—proving that when small farmer cooperatives have resources, they deliver big results. Now, with no government funding but a wealth of experience and community, Equal Exchange is choosing to keep the work alive—and inviting others to help seed this new chapter.

👉 Read the full story here to learn more about what was achieved, what’s next, and how you can support this ambitious new era of co-op development.

If you would like to donate directly please visit: https://shop.equalexchange.coop/products/donate