Key Takeaways
- Heifer International concluded multi-year investments in Grass Roots Farmers’ Cooperative (GRFC) and Cypress Valley Meat Company (CVMC).
- CVMC expanded from three to six facilities, now serving nearly 3,000 farmers in 12 states.
- GRFC shifted to a direct-to-consumer e-commerce model, connecting farmers with customers nationwide.
- The investments supported job creation, processing access, and new routes to market.
- Heifer International will now focus on training, facilitation, and farmer-led initiatives.
Heifer International’s Investments in Regenerative Meat Supply Chains
Heifer International has completed its multi-year impact investments in two organizations working to strengthen regional meat supply chains: Grass Roots Farmers’ Cooperative (GRFC) and Cypress Valley Meat Company (CVMC).
As a result of the investment, CVMC grew from three to six processing facilities, serving close to 3,000 farmers across 12 states. GRFC transitioned to a direct-to-consumer e-commerce model, expanding market access for its farmer members. Together, the organizations increased processing capacity, created jobs, and opened new pathways for small-scale livestock producers.
Perspectives from the Partners
Representatives from Heifer International and its partners described the outcomes of the investments.
“These investments reflect Heifer International’s commitment to building resilient food systems that place farmers at the center,” said Oscar Castañeda, Senior Vice President, Heifer Americas. “By strengthening local processing capacity and expanding access to markets, we are helping ensure that smallholder farmers can earn a fair income while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable food system.”
“Heifer International’s investments allowed our cooperative to expand processing access, connect farmers directly with consumers nationwide, and strengthen rural jobs,” said Cody Hopkins, CEO and Founder of Grass Roots Farmers’ Cooperative.
“This partnership has been instrumental in enabling Cypress Valley to grow and modernize our facilities,” added Brandon Dunn, CEO of Cypress Valley Meat Company / Natural State Processing.
Heifer International’s Shift in Approach
Following the conclusion of these investments, Heifer International will adjust its strategy, focusing more on facilitation and training rather than direct enterprise funding. The organization plans to emphasize farmer training, digital resources, peer learning, and tools to connect producers with markets.
The Heifer Ranch Center for Regenerative Agriculture in Perryville, Arkansas, will continue as a hub for training, land monitoring, and farmer-led advocacy. Programs will also include conservation certifications and opportunities for international knowledge exchange.
Looking Forward
With this shift, Heifer International states that it will maintain its mission of supporting farmers and rural communities while promoting practices aimed at long-term sustainability. The organization’s new approach emphasizes farmer-led solutions supported by training and resources rather than direct investment.
