Coffee Quality Institute announced the details of its 2026 Global Coffee Fund (the Fund) program at the African Fine Coffee Association Conference and Exhibition. The Fund was developed to expand access to coffee quality education and advance CQI’s mission.
“CQI knows that the coffee sector is facing extraordinary challenges, and the Global Coffee Fund is one way we are working to address them” said Michael Sheridan, chief executive officer of Coffee Quality Institute. “At a time when the public sector is disinvesting in coffee communities, CQI is tripling our commitment to the Global Coffee Fund and inviting the industry to co-invest. Together we can mobilize $500,000 to benefit coffee communities in 2026. I can’t think of a better way to mark our 30th anniversary.”
The Global Coffee Fund will invest in coffee quality through support to two distinct programs:
Project Awards
CQI will continue its successful grant program in 2026, committing up to $100,000 to fund projects that enhance access to coffee education and promote the development of educators in regions that lack sufficient local representation.
Matching Grants
This year CQI is launching a Matching Grant for co-investment with partners whose own work aligns with CQI’s mission and values. CQI will provide a dollar-for-dollar match for $200,000 for external investment in qualifying projects with a goal of generating $400,000 in new commitments in 2026.
“I am very excited about the expansion of the Global Coffee Fund for 2026,” said T.J. Ryan, managing director of programs at CQI. “The addition of the Matching Grant will enable CQI to leverage and expand our global partnerships and network of coffee experts to increase impact at the producer level. More than just a financial match, the grant seeks partners with shared objectives to build a more resilient coffee sector.”
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Further information regarding the Fund and application materials are available on the Coffee Quality Institute’s website.
