Ghanaian Pineapple Export Cooperative – Formation & First Export

Requirement

Small-scale pineapple farmers in Ghana's Eastern Region seek to form an export cooperative to access European fresh fruit markets collectively. This $450,000 initiative covers cooperative formation, export infrastructure, and first-year export operations. The cooperative aggregates production from 200+ smallholder farmers with combined annual production of 3,000 tonnes of MD2 pineapples. Investment covers packhouse construction, cold chain equipment, GlobalGAP group certification, and working capital for first export season. We seek development partners, impact investors, and fresh produce exporters to support cooperative formation. Roles include capital investment, technical assistance, and market access support. Return structures include revenue-sharing, impact-linked returns, or commercial terms depending on partner profile. Ghanaian pineapples have established reputation in European markets, but small farmers struggle to meet quality, volume, and certification requirements individually. Cooperative model enables collective compliance while preserving smallholder livelihoods. Target outcomes include €6/box premium over loose local sales, 50% increase in farmer incomes, and sustainable export operations within 3 years.