Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) has announced the details of its 2026 Global Coffee Fund program at the African Fine Coffee Association and Exhibition, with the fund set to invest in coffee quality through the support of two different programs.
First, CQI will continue its existing successful grant program in 2026 and commit up to US$100,000 to fund projects that enhance access to coffee education.
Second, it is launching a Matching Grant for co-investment with partners whose own work aligns with CQI’s mission and values, providing a dollar-for-dollar match for US$200,000 of external investment.
CEO of Coffee Quality Institute, Michael Sheridan, says the increased commitments come at a critical time where investment in coffee communities is trending downwards, not upwards.
“CQI knows that the coffee sector is facing extraordinary challenges, and the Global Coffee Fund is one way we are working to address them,” says Sheridan.
“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.”
Managing Director of Programs at CQI, T.J. Ryan, says the non-profit will prioritise partners who also seek to help build resilience in coffee with its Matching Grant.
“I am very excited about the expansion of the Global Coffee Fund for 2026. The addition of the Matching Grant program will enable CQI to leverage and expand our global partnerships and network of coffee experts to increase impact at the producer level,” says Ryan.
“More than just a financial match, the fund will seek partners with whom we have shared objectives to build a more resilient coffee sector.”
CQI says applications regarding the fund will be accepted on a rolling basis.
