Heifer International Celebrates Achievements in Farmer-Led Impact Investments, Launches New Chapter in Regenerative Agriculture

LITTLE ROCK, Ariz., Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heifer International announced the successful completion of its multi-year impact investments with Grass Roots Farmers' Cooperative (GRFC) and Cypress Valley Meat Company (CVMC), two innovative organizations dedicated to building regenerative meat supply chains that empower small-scale livestock farmers.

Through these impact investments, both organizations strengthened critical infrastructure and expanded opportunities for farmers. CVMC grew from three to six processing facilities, now serving nearly 3,000 farmers across 12 states. GRFC successfully transitioned to a direct-to-consumer e-commerce model, connecting farmers with customers nationwide. Together, they created jobs, expanded processing access, and opened new pathways to the market.

"These investments reflect Heifer International's commitment to building resilient food systems that place farmers at the center. 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." said Oscar Castañeda, Senior Vice President, Heifer Americas.

"Heifer International's investments allowed our cooperative to expand processing access, connect farmers directly with consumers nationwide, and strengthen rural jobs. Together with Cypress Valley Meat Company, we are closing the infrastructure gap that has challenged small farmers for decades, while advancing regenerative agriculture and fair farmer compensation." 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, expanding our ability to serve farmers across the region. With Heifer's support, we are helping secure fair processing opportunities for smallholders while creating stable jobs in rural communities." said Brandon Dunn, CEO, Cypress Valley Meat Company / Natural State Processing.

The completion of these targeted investments comes as Heifer International is also shifting its focus toward a facilitation and training model. Rather than directly funding enterprises, Heifer will focus on empowering farmers and regenerative organizations through hands-on training, digital resources, peer learning, and market connection tools. This approach underscores Heifer's commitment to a farmer-led, locally rooted model, where communities drive initiatives while Heifer serves as a connector, educator, and facilitator.

The Heifer Ranch Center for Regenerative Agriculture in Perryville, Arkansas, will continue to serve as a hub for advancing:

• Ecosystem health and market access through land monitoring tools and conservation certifications.
• Knowledge sharing and capacity building via training programs, digital tools, and global peer learning.
• Farmer-led advocacy and networking to shape just and sustainable food systems.

As it enters this next chapter, Heifer International remains steadfast in its mission: empowering farmers, strengthening rural communities, and regenerating the land for generations to come.

About Heifer International

Since 1944, Heifer International has worked with more than 52 million people around the world to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way, while caring for the Earth. Heifer currently operates in 19 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including the United States, supporting farmers and food producers to strengthen local economies and build secure livelihoods that provide a living income. For more information, visit https://www.heifer.org. 

SOURCE Heifer Project International