About the World Cocoa Foundation
Mission: The World Cocoa Foundation promotes a sustainable cocoa economy through economic and social development and environmental conservation in cocoa growing communities.
Millions of small, family farms grow cocoa in equatorial regions around the world. For many cocoa farmers, the crop is a major source of income for their families and their communities. Yet each year, they face significant challenges ranging from crop loss due to pests and diseases (on average, 30 percent annually), limited access to the latest farming practices, and other issues.
The World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) was formed in 2000 to address these issues. Today, it plays a leading role in helping cocoa farming families by developing and managing effective, on-the-ground programs, raising funds and acting as a forum for broad discussion of the cocoa farming sector’s needs.
Its nearly 60 member companies support the Foundation financially and through active participation in its efforts. These efforts are enhanced through “public private partnerships” organized between the WCF or its members, and a range of interested institutions.
The combination of public and private expertise brings real benefits to farmers and their families. In addition, WCF member companies contribute their valuable expertise in cocoa farming and related issues.
Based outside of Washington, DC in Vienna, Virginia, the WCF has a staff of professionals with in-depth experience in agricultural, sustainable development and rural economic issues – led by WCF president Bill Guyton.
The WCF is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.