About Us

Our mission is to grow rural prosperity and build the resilience of farming families around the world.

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In order to address some of the world's most fundamental challenges—ending poverty, protecting the planet, advancing gender inclusion, creating opportunity for future generations—we need to focus on 2.5 billion people. That's the number who are dependent on small-scale farming for their livelihoods. Though they’re the backbone of rural economies, many are impoverished and food insecure due to their limited access to markets and services. Razor-thin margins leave them vulnerable to climate shocks, which are increasing every year.

Our Approach

Root Capital supports agricultural enterprises so that they can build more prosperous, inclusive and resilient rural communities. We expand access to finance by providing capital investment for enterprises whose credit needs are too big for microfinance and too risky for commercial banks. We pair this credit with customized training in financial management, governance, agronomic capacity, and more. 

To date, we’ve distributed $1.85 billion to improve the lives of over 10 million people in farming families. In partnership with agricultural enterprises, we increase rural livelihoods, create jobs for young people, level the playing field for women, and help farmers adapt to climate change in some of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems. Join us today.


In Our Supporters’ Words


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As a nonprofit, Root Capital depends on our community of donors to drive impact for farming families. Our supporters know that their gift has a concrete impact on the most pressing challenges our world is facing.


Our Story


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Founded in 1999 by Willy Foote, Root Capital works in Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. We supply agricultural businesses with financial capital and training to help them grow. We've worked with more than 750 clients, representing 2.3 million farmers and their families and $4.6 billion in economic activity. All in some of the world's most vulnerable communities.