In September 2007, CSRwire highlighted Higher Grounds Trading Co.’s involvement in the Ethiopian Fine Coffee Initiative, an effort to strengthen the value and recognition of Ethiopia’s distinctive specialty coffees. The initiative brought coffee producers, government representatives, and roasters together to promote renowned origins such as Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, and Harar while recognizing Ethiopia’s ownership of its coffee heritage.

The coverage reflects Higher Grounds’ longstanding commitment to a more equitable coffee trade. By supporting producer-led efforts to build stronger markets and increase the value returned to coffee-growing communities, Higher Grounds helped advance an approach to specialty coffee that connects exceptional quality with greater economic opportunity for farmers.