This project targets 300 farmers in the most economically depressed region of
Ecuador. Per capita GNP is 48% below the national average, and most lack
access to clean water, education and healthcare. The farmers’ way of life helps
protect and paradoxically threatens one of the last intact forest ecosystems in a
region considered a global priority for biodiversity conservation.  Of crops
produced, cacao is the “greenest” and has considerable untapped market
potential.  However, farmers are unorganized, uninformed and commercialize
unilaterally in an increasingly oligopolistic market. Cooperative agreements,
infrastructure, technology and education are crucial steps to access better
prices.