Heifer International

Heifer International is a global nonprofit working to end hunger and poverty by partnering with smallholder farmers, particularly women farmers, to build sustainable businesses and resilient communities. Founded in 1944 by Dan West, a Midwest farmer, the organisation was built on the principle that providing people with animals yields a steady supply of nutritious food rather than the short-term relief of food aid. Its approach remains partnership-based, working alongside local farmers, business owners and communities instead of delivering short-term assistance.

Its programmes are organised around five areas: Work and Income, which helps farmers build profitable businesses with strong market linkages through tools, training and resources; Women and Inclusion; Climate and Environment, covering climate resilience and environmental sustainability; Food Security; and One Health, addressing integrated human, animal and environmental health outcomes.

The organisation operates in 19 countries across four continents and reports having supported more than 59 million households to date. Over 10 million people have been trained since 2012, 64% of them women. Its stated sectors of focus include agriculture, smallholder farming, food security, rural development and international development.