What is the Jasberry Project?
Back in 2011, two MBA students, Neil and Palmmy, stumbled upon a harsh reality: Thai farmers were among the poorest in the world, earning just $0.40 a day. This wasn’t just bad luck—it was the result of poor yields, rising costs, and outdated agricultural systems. So, they decided to do something about it. Enter Jasberry, a social enterprise with a mission to tackle farmer poverty head-on by creating sustainable, scalable, and irreversible change. Their secret weapon? Innovative organic products that have global appeal, starting with their signature Jasberry® rice.
Main Benefits of the Jasberry Project
Here’s the lowdown on what Jasberry has achieved and how it helps farmers:
- Started with just 25 farmers in the first year; now working with over 2,500 small-scale farmers.
- Farmers earn up to 200% more for Jasberry rice compared to conventional commodity rice.
- Supports 17 million farmers in Thailand facing rising debts and social challenges.
- Provides high-quality, non-GMO organic seeds to improve yields and rice quality.
- Offers microfinance loans through Kiva to help farmers buy organic fertilizers.
- Ensures farmers keep at least 25% of their harvest for household consumption.
How Jasberry Supports Farmers from Seed to Harvest
Jasberry’s approach is hands-on and holistic. It all starts with supplying farmers with top-notch organic Jasberry® rice seeds—non-GMO and ready to grow. Then, Jasberry helps farmers navigate unpredictable rainy seasons by consulting weather experts to advise on the best planting times. This timing is crucial for better yields. Plus, farmers get training on organic farming methods to meet international certification standards, ensuring their crops stay healthy without harmful chemicals or pesticides.
The Harvest and Beyond: Quality and Care
After six months of nurturing their crops, farmers harvest the rice entirely by hand. It’s hard work, but it guarantees the highest quality rice and avoids the environmental damage caused by machines. Once harvested, the rice goes to milling cooperatives where it’s processed and stored. Jasberry guarantees to buy the rice from farmers, paying them significantly more than they’d get for conventional rice. This creates a reliable income stream and encourages sustainable farming practices.
Packaging and Global Distribution
Jasberry rice doesn’t just stay in Thailand—it’s packaged and shipped internationally, connecting rural farmers with markets around the world. This global reach not only boosts farmers’ incomes but also raises awareness about organic, sustainable agriculture. It’s a win-win: consumers get delicious, nutritious rice, and farmers get a fair deal for their hard work. Jasberry proudly showcases the dedication of these farmers through every grain.
Jasberry’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 1: No Poverty – Helping farmers escape poverty through fair income.
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Promoting nutritious, organic food production.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Creating sustainable livelihoods.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encouraging organic farming and reducing chemical use.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Adapting farming practices to changing weather patterns.
Why Jasberry Matters in Today’s Agricultural Landscape
In a world where small-scale farmers often get overlooked, Jasberry stands out by putting them front and center. It’s not just about rice—it’s about transforming lives, communities, and the environment. By combining traditional farming wisdom with modern organic practices and global market access, Jasberry is rewriting the story of agriculture in Thailand. And honestly, it’s inspiring to see how a simple grain of rice can make such a big difference.
