Earthworm Foundation: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Earthworm Foundation is a global non-profit organization dedicated to transforming supply chains to foster environmental sustainability and social equity. Established in 1999 as the Tropical Forest Trust, the organization has evolved to address a broad spectrum of environmental and social challenges across various industries. With a presence in over 20 countries, Earthworm collaborates with businesses, communities, and governments to implement responsible sourcing practices and promote regenerative agriculture.

Mission and Vision

The foundation envisions a world where forests serve as an inexhaustible source of materials and a sanctuary for biodiversity, communities have their rights respected and opportunities for development, workers are seen as productive partners, and agriculture becomes a tool to feed a hungry planet while maintaining climate stability.

Industry Significance

Earthworm Foundation plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between corporate operations and environmental stewardship. By working directly on the ground, the organization addresses complex issues such as deforestation, labor rights, and sustainable agriculture, thereby influencing global supply chains and promoting responsible business practices.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Environmental Sustainability: Implementing practices that protect and restore ecosystems, focusing on forest conservation and regenerative agriculture.

Social Equity: Ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for communities and workers within supply chains.

Supply Chain Transformation: Collaborating with businesses to integrate responsible sourcing and transparency into their operations.

Areas of Specialization

Commodity Sourcing: Addressing environmental and social issues in commodities such as palm oil, cocoa, soy, pulp and paper, rubber, biomass, and seafood.

Regenerative Agriculture: Promoting farming practices that restore soil health and biodiversity.

Community Engagement: Empowering local communities through capacity-building and fair labor practices.

Key Technologies Utilized

Satellite Monitoring: Employing satellite imagery to monitor deforestation and land-use changes.

Data Analytics: Utilizing data-driven approaches to assess supply chain impacts and progress.

Primary Markets Targeted

Agribusinesses: Collaborating with companies involved in the production and processing of raw materials.

Consumer Goods Manufacturers: Partnering with brands seeking to ensure responsible sourcing.

Retailers: Engaging with retailers aiming to offer sustainably sourced products.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Between 2019 and 2023, Earthworm Foundation's revenue grew by 59%, totaling almost $100 million. Approximately 90% of this funding came from over 50 members and partners, primarily private companies, while about 4% originated from public grants.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

Earthworm Foundation's funding partners include major corporations such as Nestlé, PepsiCo, Danone, Mars, L'Oréal, Colgate-Palmolive, McDonald's, Walmart Foundation, 3M, Bunge, Cargill, Wilmar, Asia Pulp & Paper, Louis Dreyfus Foundation, Olam, Veracel (Suzano and Stora Enso), and Socfin.

Utilization of Capital

The capital is utilized to support on-the-ground projects, develop tools and methodologies for supply chain monitoring, engage in capacity-building initiatives, and foster partnerships aimed at environmental conservation and social equity.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects and Initiatives

Regenerative Agriculture in France and India: Supporting farmers to adopt regenerative practices, leading to increased yields and alternative income sources.

Forest Conservation in Côte d'Ivoire: Protecting and restoring the Cavally Forest Reserve through joint patrols, reforestation, and community engagement.

Water Stewardship in Brazil: Empowering urban recycling cooperatives to improve recycling practices and reduce environmental impact.

Anticipated Milestones

2025: Expand regenerative agriculture initiatives to additional regions, aiming to engage over 10,000 farmers.

2026: Achieve measurable reductions in deforestation rates in key sourcing regions through collaborative efforts.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Starling: A satellite imagery-based solution developed in partnership with Airbus Geospatial and Secure Connectivity Solutions to monitor deforestation risks across supply chains.

Significant Scientific Methods

Holistic Farm Planning: A collaborative approach with farmers to plan for regeneration beyond compliance, integrating environmental and social considerations into farming practices.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Bastien Sachet: Chief Executive Officer.

Julien Troussier: Director, Human Resources.

Rob McWilliam: Director, Supply Chain Solutions.

Marianne Martinet: Director, Programmes.

Boris Saraber: Chief Operating Officer.

Jotica Sehgal: Director, Communications.

Karine Claudel: Director, Finance & Legal.

Leadership Changes

As of November 26, 2025, the partnership between Socfin and Earthworm Foundation has concluded.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for environmental and social supply chain solutions is growing, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and stricter regulations on corporate responsibility. Organizations like Earthworm Foundation are at the forefront of this movement, offering expertise in transforming supply chains to meet these demands.

Competitor Analysis

World Resources Institute (WRI): Focuses on environmental sustainability and resource management.

Rainforest Alliance: Works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Fair Trade International: Promotes fair trade practices and supports farmers and workers.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Earthworm Foundation collaborates with various organizations to enhance its impact, including:

Fairtrade International: Partnered to combat deforestation and promote sustainable practices.

BioMar Group: Collaborated on a project to improve sustainability in Ecuador's shrimp sector.

Operational Insights

Earthworm Foundation's unique approach of working directly on the ground with communities and businesses differentiates it from competitors. This hands-on methodology allows for tailored solutions that address specific local challenges, fostering trust and collaboration among stakeholders.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Expansion of Regenerative Agriculture: Increase the adoption of regenerative practices among farmers globally.

Enhanced Supply Chain Transparency: Utilize advanced technologies to provide greater visibility into supply chains.

Strengthening Community Engagement: Deepen partnerships with local communities to ensure sustainable and equitable development.

Future Business Directions

Geographical Expansion: Extend operations into additional countries to address global supply chain challenges.

Sector Diversification: Expand focus to include other commodities and industries facing environmental and social issues.

Opportunities for Expansion

Policy Advocacy: Engage in policy dialogues to influence regulations supporting sustainable supply chains.

Capacity Building: Offer training programs to businesses and communities on sustainable practices.

Positioning for Future Objectives

Earthworm Foundation's established reputation, extensive network, and innovative approaches position it well to achieve its future objectives and drive meaningful change in global supply chains.