Strawberry Communities

Ukraine’s agricultural sector is characterized by vast natural resources and high potential, yet it faces significant structural and socio-economic challenges. With one of the largest areas of arable land in Europe and exceptionally fertile soils, the country holds a strong comparative advantage in agricultural production. However, this potential remains partially underutilized, particularly in rural areas.  

Around 30% of the population lives in rural regions, where economic opportunities are limited, driving significant migration toward urban centers. This rural exodus contributes to the underuse of fertile land and weakens local agricultural systems 

Danone Ecosystem Fund with the support of DanTrade and its local partner Heifer Ukraine, co-created in 2021 the “Ukraine Strawberry Communities” project to support the development of a new sustainable strawberry sourcing model.  

A cooperative structure was established to lease available farmland and invest in the necessary equipment (particularly cooling infrastructure). The cooperative also employed and trained farmers in sustainable strawberry production, enabling them to improve yields and quality while selling their crops through the cooperative.