Cooperative Business International Inc.

Founded in 1984, Cooperative Business International (CBI) was created to connect U.S. government–sponsored economic development initiatives with commercial markets, aiming to establish self-sustaining companies.

Originating from a USAID vision to promote democracy and economic growth in developing nations, CBI was formed by the National Cooperative Business Association (NCBA) to build cooperative business partnerships worldwide. The organization quickly built a strong reputation for identifying market opportunities in both established and emerging economies.

The founders believed that the cooperative model was a powerful tool to foster democratic values, encourage shared business ownership, and improve the well-being of members. By investing in their local communities, cooperatives strengthen supply chains and enhance surrounding economies.

In 1994, CBI shifted its focus toward trading and brokering premium agricultural products, which fueled significant growth. Four years later, in 1998, it expanded further by making equity investments in Indonesia, partnering with farmer organizations in the spice and specialty coffee sectors.

Today, CBI stands as a prominent global trade and market development company, supplying high-quality agricultural products to the food and beverage, feed, and industrial sectors.