Global sourcing solution Sourcery has partnered with Pakistan-based social enterprise Rizq and will pilot a programme designed to promote regenerative cotton farming. Sourcery’s ‘Direct-to-Grower™ Programme’ will also enable cotton farmers to earn extra income. 

“Through our partnership with Sourcery, we are thrilled to transform Pakistan’s agriculture landscape by ensuring premium prices for smallholder farmers committed to sustainability,” said Rizq’s CEO and co-founder Qasim Javaid in a press release. “Sourcery’s expertise in fostering transparent, and fair transactions aligns seamlessly with Rizq’s strength in cultivating a robust network of smallholder farmers. This data-driven collaboration circles back, creating enhanced livelihood opportunities for millions of small farmers, ensuring equitable value chains.”
 
As part of the programme, Rizq and Sourcery will together onboard approximately 500 cotton farmers to enable it to pilot its Impact and Assurance Programme in Pakistan. Through this, Riqz farmers will be able to earn extra funds by collecting and selling primary data through the Sourcery Connect App. 

“Rizq is following a progressive vision and is aligned with our values as they are dedicated to creating for-profit social enterprises which will create commercial value so that farmers can sustain themselves through their agriculture,” said Sourcery’s co-founder and managing director for South Asia Imran Asghar. “We believe that this partnership holds great potential for both our organisations and the farming communities in Pakistan. Together, we can make a significant impact on sustainable farming practices and the future of farmers.” 
 
In the first cotton season, Rizq will be an ‘Agronomic Partner’ and will set up a for-profit entity which will be enrolled in the Direct-to-Grower™ Programme as an official Grower Partner. Sourcery will collect data and offer training on regenerative practices to the farmers.