Today, Invest International is proud to announce the signing of a €10 million debt facility with the Organic Development Finance (ODF) Fund. This investment aims to boost organic farming in emerging countries by providing financing to promising organic enterprises. As our first blended finance vehicle supported by debt, our contribution aims to help attract additional impact investors to support the financing of SMEs in sustainable agriculture.
About Organic Development Finance
Organic Development Finance (ODF) was created to offer affordable financing to certified organic agricultural companies in low-income and emerging countries. The goal is to strengthen local supply chains for organic crops and realize the environmental and social benefits of organic farming.
Building impact through organic agriculture
Invest International has stepped in as a cornerstone funder in the Organic Development Finance (ODF) Fund to help launch this blended finance vehicle for organic producers in developing countries. ODF aims to use Invest International’s participation as a model to attract additional impact investors, showcasing how market-driven financing—rooted in collaboration and synergy—can multiply sustainable development efforts.
This investment aligns with Invest International’s commitment to the Agri-Food sector, where we support sustainable practices, growth and innovation in agriculture. By providing financing to these high-potential enterprises, we aim to strengthen global organic food supply chains and enhance the market access and resilience of agricultural businesses, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive food system.
Supporting Dutch businesses and global sustainable development
This partnership aligns closely with Invest International mandate to promote Dutch solutions for global challenges, as the project has several Dutch links. Specifically:
- The fund is established in the Netherlands and was founded by Dutch organic sourcing and trading company Tradin Organic Agriculture.
- FOUNT, a leading Dutch impact investment firm, provides strategic advisory and manages the fund.
- The project creates a level playing field for organic commodity imports to the Netherlands and the wider European market.
Case example: ODF’s investment in Sierra Leone’s organic cocoa
An example of ODF’s impact is its recent $1 million investment in Sierra Leone’s organic cocoa industry, reaching nearly 30,000 smallholder farmers. Through this funding, farmers receive training in sustainable practices, gain certifications like Fairtrade, and access premium markets with better prices. This initiative supports Sierra Leone’s economy, while advancing ethical production, reforestation, and community welfare.
